autofocus

Meanings

1. 1noununcountabletechnical

   A camera system that automatically adjusts the lens so the subject appears sharp.

   Grammar: Usually uncountable: 'The autofocus is fast.' It can be countable when talking about a particular mode or unit: 'an autofocus that tracks eyes.'

   Patterns

   • autofocus on something
   • autofocus mode
   • the autofocus is fast/slow

   The autofocus on this camera is very quick, even in dim light.

   She switched off the autofocus and turned the ring by hand.

   Modern phones use autofocus to keep faces sharp in group photos.

2. 2verbintransitivetechnical

   To adjust a camera lens automatically so that the subject becomes sharp.

   Grammar: No object; often used with 'on': 'The lens autofocuses on the nearest face.'

   Patterns

   • autofocus on something
   • the lens autofocuses

   The camera autofocuses on the nearest eye when you half-press the button.

   It autofocuses quickly, so you can shoot moving children.

   The lens autofocuses silently during video recording.

Word forms

Common combinations

autofocus mode

Set the camera to autofocus mode before you start filming.

autofocus on something

The lens will autofocus on the person closest to you.

fast autofocus

Sports photographers need fast autofocus to catch the action.

turn off the autofocus

Turn off the autofocus if you want to control the focus yourself.

Synonyms and how they differ

AF

The short written form used on camera buttons and in manuals; it is not used in everyday speech.

auto focus

A less common spelling with a space; the single word is standard in modern technical writing.

Opposites

Word family

autofocusing noun

The process of adjusting focus automatically.

focus verb

To adjust a lens, or to give attention to something.

Commonly confused: autofocus or auto-focus?

Practice

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Write a sentence using “autofocus”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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