# focus on sb/sth

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/focus-on-sb-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

To give all your attention to one particular thing or person. You use it when you want to talk about concentrating.

For teachers: To direct one's attention or effort towards a specific object, person, or activity. It is a transitive prepositional verb where 'on' introduces the object of attention.

## Examples

- I need to focus on my homework now.
- The team decided to focus on improving customer service after receiving several complaints.
- The documentary chose to focus on the lesser-known aspects of the artist's life, revealing a complex personality previously obscured by his more famous works.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I need to focus in my work." but "I need to focus on my work." — The verb 'focus' always pairs with the preposition 'on' to indicate the target of attention.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by a noun or a gerund (an '-ing' verb) that names the activity.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'concentrate on', which is a close synonym but can feel slightly more intense or formal.

---

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.