focus
The centre of attention; to direct attention on one thing.
Word facts
Definition
Focus means the centre of attention or interest. As a verb, to focus means to direct your attention or energy at one particular thing and keep it there.
Usage: Focus on (verb): 'Focus on your goal'. In focus / out of focus refer to sharpness in photography or clarity in thinking.
Example sentences
- 1
She turned off her phone to focus on her work.
- 2
The photographer adjusted the lens to bring the subject into focus.
- 3
The meeting had a clear focus on improving customer service.
Word family
From Latin focus ('hearth, fireplace'). In Latin, the hearth was the centre of the household. In optics, focus became the point where light rays converge.
Focus on the 'o' in the middle — one point, one centre. Focus is about the one central point.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the plural of focus?
Both foci (Latin) and focuses are accepted. Focuses is more common in everyday English.
How do I use focus in a sentence?
As a noun: 'The focus of the lesson was vocabulary.' As a verb: 'Focus on one task at a time'.