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Meaning of focus

Source language: EnglishDictionary language: English

focus

Pronunciation:/ˈfəʊ.kəs//ˈfoʊ.kəs/

noun

Definitions

  1. 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.

  2. A point of a conic at which rays reflected from a curve or surface converge.

  3. The fact of the convergence of light on the photographic medium.

    Example: Unfortunately, the license plate is out of focus in this image.

  4. The quality of the convergence of light on the photographic medium.

    Example: During this scene, the boy’s face shifts subtly from soft focus into sharp focus.

verb

Definitions

  1. (followed by on or upon) To concentrate one's attention.

    Example: I have to focus on my work.

  2. To cause (rays of light, etc) to converge at a single point.

  3. To adjust (a lens, an optical instrument) in order to position an image with respect to the focal plane.

    Example: You'll need to focus the microscope carefully in order to capture the full detail of this surface.

  4. To concentrate one’s attention.

    Example: If you're going to beat your competitors, you need to focus.