Synonyms of focus

focus 1 of 2

verb

as in to concentrate

to fix (as one's attention) steadily toward a central objective

try to focus your attention on the task at hand

Synonyms & Similar Words

• concentrate
• rivet
• center
• train
• fasten
• point
• aim
• home (in on)
• direct
• refocus
• set
• heed
• level
• zero (in on)
• attend
• mind
• nail
• fixate (on)
• hone in (on)
• obsess (over)

focus

2 of 2

noun

ˈfō-kəs 

1

as in center

a thing or place that is of greatest importance to an activity or interest

in the 19th century Paris was the focus of the art world

Synonyms & Similar Words

• center
• hub
• capital
• mecca
• core
• heart
• seat
• base
• locus
• nucleus
• central
• nexus
• axis
• ground zero
• headquarters
• epicenter
• eye
• navel
• nerve center
• cynosure
• playground
• omphalos
• where it's at
• hot spot
• essence
• attraction
• hotbed
• magnet
• kernel
• hive
• nub
• pith
• happy hunting ground
• thick
• deep
• soul
• playland
• polestar
• lodestone
• quintessence

2

as in compass

a guiding or motivating purpose or principle

a wildlife conservation organization that seems to have lost its focus

Synonyms & Similar Words

• compass
• direction
• purpose
• goal
• objective
• polestar
• aim
• cynosure
• intention
• lodestar
• criterion
• benchmark
• object
• standard
• target
• measure
• touchstone
• ambition
• grade
• aspiration
• yardstick
• dream
• par
• mark

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of focus

Verb

Rice’s recent focus has been as the head of ceremonies and content for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games — but now Rice focuses on a more urgent task. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026

Paredes obtained registration from the state to operate the business and serve up to six children, according to her attorneys with the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit law firm focused on government overreach. — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Oct. 2026

Noun

Though the Republican focus on Omar’s background dates back years, the search notably took place three weeks before the November midterms, in which Omar is seeking reelection. — Alanna Durkin Richer, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026

In accessories, there’s a major focus on the waist, through belts and cummerbunds, while beading and fringe continue to enliven the novelty bag category. — Madeleine Schulz, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2026