Meaning & use

focus on

verb·Everyday

To give particular attention to a specific subject, task, or goal.

See it in a sentence

The coach told the team to focus on defense during the second half.

She decided to focus on her health after a stressful year at work.

A note on using this word

"Focus on" is typically followed by a noun or gerund, not a bare infinitive ("focus on finishing," not "focus to finish").

Words with a similar meaning

concentrate onprioritize

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

Make it your own

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