# focussed

/ˈfoʊkəst/ (US) · /fˈəʊkəszt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/focussed
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

giving all your attention to one particular thing. You use this to describe someone who is working hard and not getting distracted.

For teachers: directing a great deal of attention, interest, or activity towards a particular aim. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'remain' or 'stay'.

## Examples

- She stays focussed on her goals.
- The team remained focussed on the project despite the tight deadline and constant interruptions.
- A more focussed approach to urban planning could mitigate the environmental impact of rapid population growth while simultaneously improving the quality of life for residents.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is very focus on his work" but "He is very focussed on his work" — Learners often use the base verb 'focus' instead of the participial adjective 'focussed' to describe a state.

## Usage notes

- Commonly follows linking verbs such as 'be', 'stay', or 'remain'.

---

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.