How to Pronounce Focus

To pronounce "focus", say FOC-us — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈfəʊ.kəs/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

focus

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

5

Letters

/ˈfəʊ.kəs/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “focus”

"focus" has 2 syllables: foc-us. It rhymes with locus and crocus, if that helps it stick.

What does focus mean?

noun

  1. A point at which reflected or refracted rays of light converge.

    “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.

verb

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

    “I have to focus on my work.”

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

Hear “focus” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with focus

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

locuscrocusrefocushocuscocusdocus

Related words

centerconcenterporecentrecenteringsharpenconcentraterivet

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "focus"?▾

"Focus" has 2 syllables: foc · us.

What is the IPA transcription of "focus"?▾

The IPA transcription of "focus" is /ˈfəʊ.kəs/.

What does "focus" mean?▾

Focus: A point at which reflected or refracted rays of light converge.

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