# concentration

/ˌkɑnsənˈtɹeɪʃən/ (US) · /kˌɒnsəntɹˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/concentration
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 3. a gathering in one place

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

a large number of people or things brought together in one area.

For teachers: a high density or clustering of items or people within a specific geographic or physical space.

- There is a heavy concentration of tech companies in this part of the city.
- The high concentration of industry along the riverbanks has led to significant environmental challenges for the local government.

Usage: Frequently used in urban planning and sociology contexts.

### 4. academic focus

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Academic

a specific subject that a student chooses to focus on during their degree.

For teachers: a specific area of emphasis within a broader academic major or field of study.

- She is a history major with a concentration in Latin American studies.
- The university offers a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in sustainable finance and corporate social responsibility.

Teaching tip: This is primarily used in the US higher education system; British universities usually prefer 'specialism' or 'pathway'.

## Examples

- I need total concentration to finish this difficult report.
- The high concentration of tech companies in the city center has driven up local rents significantly.
- Maintaining deep concentration during a lecture requires not only interest in the subject matter but also a physical environment free from digital distractions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.