Another Word for Focus: 13 Synonyms with Examples
To focus is to give most of your attention to one thing. As a noun it is the main centre of interest. Alternatives can make the attention sound narrower or more intense.
As a verb: give attention to
- concentrate
- centre on
- zero in on
- home in on
- target
- dwell on
As a noun: main centre of attention
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- concentrate
- Puts all your mental effort into something.
- centre on
- A topic or discussion has something at its middle.
- zero in on
- Informal; aims attention very precisely.
- dwell on
- Keeps thinking about something, often too long.
- emphasis
- Special importance given to one thing over others.
- priority
- The thing treated as most important.
Example sentences
- concentrate: I can't concentrate with the radio on.
- centre on: The debate centred on the cost of the new bridge.
- zero in on: The investigators zeroed in on a single faulty valve.
- dwell on: Try not to dwell on one bad result.
- emphasis: The course places an emphasis on practical skills.
- priority: Patient safety is the hospital's first priority.
Opposite of focus
- ignore
- neglect
- distraction
- blur
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “focus”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: center, pore, rivet
noun: focusing, direction, centering
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “focus”?
The most useful alternatives are “concentrate”, “centre on”, “zero in on”, “home in on”, “target”. For the main sense (give attention to), “concentrate” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “concentrate” and “centre on”?
concentrate: Puts all your mental effort into something. centre on: A topic or discussion has something at its middle.
What is the opposite of “focus”?
Common antonyms are “ignore”, “neglect”, “distraction”, “blur”.