focus
English meaning: Focus
Definition
A point at which reflected or refracted rays of light converge.
Example
“The heat of sunlight at the focus of a magnifying glass can easily set dry leaves on fire.”
Another example: “The training course had a strong focus on customer service.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A neutral noun and verb meaning the centre of attention or interest, sharpness of an image, or a focal point. 'In focus' / 'out of focus' describe image clarity. The verb 'focus on' is extremely common. Note both 'focused' and 'focussed' (chiefly UK) are accepted.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Latin 'focus' ('hearth, fireplace'); the optical and figurative senses were introduced by Kepler in the 17th century.
Synonyms
Antonyms / Opposites
- distraction
- periphery
Related Words
Common Collocations
- focus on
- in focus
- main focus
- out of focus
- shift focus
Word Forms
focus (n); foci/focuses (pl); focus (v); focused/focussed; focusing
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
CC-licensed · free to useVideo
Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B