이 페이지를 내 언어로
English فارسی العربية Deutsch Español Français 日本語 Português 中文 हिन्दी
B1 noun #2,000 가장 일반적인 15분 분량

焦点

shouten
연습하기 예시 노트와 팁 焦点 30초 만에
설명 焦点 in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning their journey into the Japanese language. The concept of 'focus' or 'center of attention' is usually introduced through very simple, concrete terms rather than the abstract noun 焦点 (shouten). A1 learners might express the idea of focusing by simply pointing to something and saying 'kore' (this) or using basic verbs like 'miru' (to look). They might learn words like 'chushin' (center) in a physical sense, such as the center of a room or a circle. While 'shouten' itself is generally too advanced for an A1 curriculum, the foundational concept of directing attention is established. An A1 learner might understand the English word 'focus' but would struggle to translate the abstract nuance into Japanese. They rely heavily on context, gestures, and basic vocabulary to indicate what is important in a conversation. The goal at this stage is basic communication and survival Japanese, so abstract nouns are deferred to later stages. However, introducing the idea that Japanese has specific words for different types of 'centers' lays the groundwork for future learning. For instance, they might learn 'daiji' (important) to express that something needs attention. The progression from 'this is important' to 'this is the focal point' is a journey that begins with these simple A1 building blocks. Teachers might use visual aids, like a magnifying glass, to visually demonstrate the concept of focus, even if the specific vocabulary word 'shouten' is not yet expected to be memorized or actively used in sentences.
무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기
As learners progress to the A2 level, their ability to express basic needs and describe their environment improves significantly. They start to form more complex sentences and can express opinions simply. At this stage, the word 焦点 (shouten) might still be slightly advanced for active production, but they begin to encounter situations where the concept is necessary. They learn to express what they are concentrating on using phrases like '～に集中する' (~ni shuuchuu suru - to concentrate on). They can say 'I am concentrating on my studies' (Benkyou ni shuuchuu shite imasu). This is a crucial stepping stone toward understanding 'shouten'. They also become more comfortable with words like 'chushin' (center) and 'taisetsu' (important). An A2 learner might hear 'shouten' in a simplified news broadcast or a structured listening exercise and, with context, guess its meaning. They are learning to navigate conversations where the topic shifts, and they need to identify the main point. While they might not say 'the focus of the meeting is...', they can say 'the most important thing in the meeting is...'. The A2 level is about expanding vocabulary to describe states and actions more accurately. The introduction of 'shouten' as a receptive vocabulary word (one they understand when they hear it, even if they don't use it) often happens here. It prepares them for the B1 level, where abstract nouns become essential for expressing nuanced thoughts and participating in more complex discussions.
무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기
The B1 level is the true home of the word 焦点 (shouten). At this intermediate stage, learners are expected to handle abstract concepts, participate in discussions on familiar topics, and understand the main points of clear standard input. 'Shouten' becomes an active part of their vocabulary. They learn the essential collocations: 焦点を合わせる (shouten o awaseru - to focus on) and 焦点を絞る (shouten o shiboru - to narrow the focus). A B1 learner can comfortably say, 'Let's focus on this problem' (Kono mondai ni shouten o awasemashou). They understand the difference between a physical center (chuushin) and a metaphorical focal point (shouten). This word empowers them to structure their arguments, write more coherent essays, and actively manage the flow of a conversation. In a classroom setting, a B1 student can understand a teacher saying, 'The focus of today's lesson is grammar.' They can also consume media more effectively, recognizing 'shouten' in news articles and understanding that it indicates the core issue being reported. The mastery of this word at the B1 level marks a significant transition from merely describing the world to analyzing it. It allows learners to express priorities and direct attention, which are critical skills for independent language use. They also learn to recognize when the focus is lost, using phrases like 'shouten ga boyakeru' (the focus is blurred), demonstrating a deeper understanding of the word's metaphorical applications.
At the B2 level, learners are highly independent and can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity. Their use of 焦点 (shouten) becomes more sophisticated and nuanced. They don't just use it to mean 'focus'; they use it to navigate complex debates, critique arguments, and synthesize information from multiple sources. A B2 learner can effortlessly drop 'shouten' into a fast-paced business meeting or an academic discussion. They understand passive constructions like 焦点が当てられる (shouten ga aterareru - focus is placed upon) and can use them to discuss societal trends or media attention. For example, they might say, 'Recently, focus has been placed on environmental issues' (Saikin, kankyou mondai ni shouten ga aterarete iru). They are also adept at using related vocabulary like 要点 (youten - main point) and 注目 (chuumoku - attention) interchangeably but accurately, depending on the subtle shade of meaning required. In writing, a B2 learner uses 'shouten' to clearly define the scope of their essays or reports, ensuring their arguments are tight and well-structured. They can read editorials and complex articles, easily identifying the author's 'shouten' even when it is buried in sophisticated rhetoric. At this level, the word is a fully integrated tool in their communicative arsenal, allowing them to express complex analytical thoughts with precision and confidence, matching the proficiency expected in professional and academic environments.
무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기
C1 learners possess an advanced, operational proficiency in Japanese. They can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. For a C1 learner, 焦点 (shouten) is a basic building block for highly complex discourse. They use it effortlessly in abstract, theoretical, or highly technical contexts. They can manipulate the word to create subtle rhetorical effects. For instance, they might discuss the 'shifting focus' (shouten no ikou) of a political campaign or the 'blurred focus' (shouten no boyake) of a poorly drafted legal document. They are completely comfortable with idiomatic and extended uses of the word. A C1 learner can lead a seminar, expertly guiding the discussion by constantly redefining and clarifying the 'shouten' to keep the group on track. They can read academic papers, legal texts, and literary critiques, instantly grasping the focal point of the author's argument. They also understand the etymological weight of the word—the combination of 'burn/focus' and 'point'—and can use it to add impact to their speech. At this level, the challenge is not knowing what the word means or how to use it grammatically, but rather using it with the exact right tone and register for the specific audience, whether it be a board of directors, an academic panel, or a sophisticated social gathering. Their use of 'shouten' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker.
무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기
At the C2 level, learners have achieved mastery and can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Their use of 焦点 (shouten) is absolute and instinctive. They can play with the concept of focus, using it in highly creative, poetic, or deeply philosophical ways. A C2 learner might use 'shouten' to deconstruct a complex philosophical argument, pointing out where the author's focus fails or where it reveals hidden biases. They can write highly persuasive essays, manipulating the reader's attention by carefully controlling the 'shouten' throughout the text. They are also acutely aware of how the concept of focus interacts with other advanced linguistic concepts, such as framing, perspective, and discourse analysis. In a high-stakes negotiation, a C2 learner can use the concept of 'shouten' to subtly shift the terms of the debate, directing the opponent's attention exactly where they want it. They understand the word not just as a vocabulary item, but as a fundamental cognitive mechanism expressed through language. They can discuss the 'shouten' of a piece of abstract art or the 'shouten' of a historical era with equal ease and profound insight. At this ultimate level of proficiency, the word is a seamless extension of their analytical mind, used with flawless precision and elegant variation.
무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기
연습하기 예시 노트와 팁

焦点 30초 만에

  • Meaning: The focal point or center of attention.
  • Usage: Paired with verbs like 'awaseru' (adjust) or 'shiboru' (narrow).
  • Context: Common in news, business meetings, and academic writing.
  • Nuance: Implies a deliberate concentration of mental or visual energy.

The Japanese word 焦点 (shouten) primarily translates to 'focus' or 'focal point'. In a literal sense, it refers to the point where light rays converge after passing through a lens, a concept heavily used in optics and photography. However, in everyday and academic contexts, it is most frequently used metaphorically to denote the center of interest, activity, or attention. Understanding this word is crucial for navigating both technical discussions and abstract conversations about priorities and main ideas. When you want to draw someone's attention to the most critical part of an issue, you use this word. It helps in structuring arguments, clarifying objectives, and ensuring that everyone involved in a discussion is on the same page. The mastery of this term elevates your Japanese from basic conversational level to a more proficient, analytical level. It is a cornerstone vocabulary word for anyone looking to engage in business meetings, academic writing, or deep analytical discussions in Japanese.

Literal Meaning
The physical point where rays of light or heat meet after being reflected or refracted.

カメラの焦点を合わせる。(Adjust the focus of the camera.)

Beyond the literal, the figurative use is pervasive. When a news anchor talks about the 'focus of the debate', or a manager discusses the 'focus of the quarter', they rely on this exact term. It acts as a cognitive anchor, directing the listener's mental energy toward a specific subject. This duality—physical and abstract—makes it a versatile and powerful noun. In academic writing, establishing the 'shouten' early in a paper is a standard requirement, much like stating a thesis in English. It tells the reader exactly what to expect and what parameters the research will operate within.

Figurative Meaning
The main point of an issue, discussion, or strategy.

議論の焦点がずれている。(The focus of the argument is off.)

Let us delve deeper into the nuances. The kanji 焦 (sho) means 'to burn' or 'to char', but it also carries the meaning of 'impatience' or 'focusing intensely' (as in a magnifying glass burning a leaf). The kanji 点 (ten) simply means 'point' or 'dot'. Together, they create a vivid image of a concentrated point of energy or attention. This etymological background helps learners remember not just the translation, but the feeling of the word—an intense, concentrated gathering of thought or light. When you use it, you are metaphorically bringing a magnifying glass to the topic at hand.

Kanji Breakdown
焦 (burn/focus) + 点 (point) = Focal point.

問題の焦点を明確にする。(Clarify the focus of the problem.)

Furthermore, understanding how to manipulate this word in sentences allows for highly expressive communication. You can say the focus is blurred (ぼやける), the focus is sharp (定まる), or that you need to shift the focus (移す). Each of these collocations paints a specific picture of how a topic is being handled. In a world overflowing with information, the ability to clearly state the 'shouten' is an invaluable communication skill. It demonstrates clarity of thought and leadership in conversations. Whether you are writing a dissertation, leading a project, or simply trying to understand a complex news article, identifying the focal point is your first step to comprehension and effective response.

今後の焦点は経済対策だ。(The focus from now on is economic policy.)

焦点を絞って話しましょう。(Let's narrow down the focus and talk.)

Using 焦点 (shouten) correctly involves mastering its common collocations and understanding the grammatical structures it typically inhabits. As a noun, it is most frequently followed by the particle が (ga) or を (wo), depending on whether it is the subject of a state or the object of an action. The most critical verbs to learn alongside this noun are 合わせる (awaseru - to adjust/align), 絞る (shiboru - to narrow down), and 当てる (ateru - to hit/apply). When you say 焦点を合わせる (shouten o awaseru), you are literally saying 'to adjust the focus', which is used both for cameras and for mental attention. This phrase is indispensable in both casual and professional settings. It implies a deliberate effort to concentrate on something specific, filtering out distractions. Mastering this single phrase will significantly boost your fluency and ability to direct conversations.

Action Collocation 1
焦点を合わせる (To focus on / To adjust the focus)

顧客のニーズに焦点を合わせる。(Focus on the needs of the customer.)

Another highly frequent and useful combination is 焦点を絞る (shouten o shiboru). The verb 絞る means to squeeze or narrow down. Therefore, this phrase means to narrow the focus. This is particularly useful in meetings or brainstorming sessions when a discussion has become too broad or tangential. By suggesting to 'narrow the focus', you are guiding the group back to the core issue. It shows a high level of communicative competence and a grasp of meeting facilitation in Japanese. It is a polite yet firm way to manage the flow of discourse. You will often hear managers or professors use this phrase to keep their teams or students on track.

Action Collocation 2
焦点を絞る (To narrow the focus)

ターゲット層に焦点を絞る。(Narrow the focus to the target demographic.)

When describing the state of the focus, rather than an action, you will use intransitive verbs. For example, 焦点が定まる (shouten ga sadamaru) means the focus is fixed or established. Conversely, 焦点がぼやける (shouten ga boyakeru) means the focus is blurred or unclear. These expressions are excellent for critiquing a piece of writing, a presentation, or a plan. If a proposal lacks a clear objective, you can politely point out that the 'focus is blurred'. This is a constructive way to offer feedback without being overly aggressive. It focuses the critique on the structure of the argument rather than the person making it, which aligns well with Japanese communication styles that often prefer indirectness in criticism.

State Collocation
焦点がぼやける (The focus is blurred/unclear)

話の焦点がぼやけている。(The focus of the talk is blurred.)

Furthermore, the phrase 焦点が当たる (shouten ga ataru) means that something is receiving focus or attention, often from the public or the media. If a new social issue suddenly becomes the topic of national debate, you would say that the focus has hit that issue. This passive construction is very common in news reporting. Understanding these various verb pairings allows you to express a wide range of nuances regarding attention, clarity, and priority. Practice these combinations until they become second nature, as they form the backbone of analytical and professional Japanese communication. They are the tools you use to navigate complex topics with precision and grace.

環境問題に焦点が当たる。(Environmental issues are receiving focus.)

新しい技術に焦点を当てる。(Shine a focus on new technology.)

The word 焦点 (shouten) is ubiquitous across various domains of Japanese life, from the highly technical to the everyday professional. One of the most common places you will encounter this word is in the news media. Journalists and news anchors frequently use it to summarize the main point of a complex ongoing story. For instance, during election seasons, political commentators will constantly discuss the 'shouten' of the election—meaning the primary issue that voters care about or the main point of contention between candidates. Similarly, in economic news, the focus might be on inflation rates or trade policies. Recognizing this word in a news context immediately alerts you to the core thesis of the report, allowing you to grasp the main idea even if you miss some of the surrounding vocabulary.

Context 1: News Media
Used to highlight the main issue of a current event or debate.

今回の選挙の焦点は経済だ。(The focus of this election is the economy.)

Another major arena for this word is the corporate world. In business meetings, strategic planning sessions, and project management, maintaining focus is critical for efficiency. You will hear managers asking to clarify the 'shouten' of a project to ensure resources are not wasted. When a presentation is given, the audience expects the speaker to clearly define the focus early on. If a discussion wanders off-topic, a skilled facilitator will use this word to gently but firmly bring the team back to the agenda. It is a vocabulary word that signifies professionalism, strategic thinking, and effective time management. If you are working in a Japanese company, mastering the use of this word in meetings will greatly enhance your perceived competence and leadership potential.

Context 2: Business Meetings
Used to keep discussions on track and define project goals.

会議の焦点を再確認しましょう。(Let's reconfirm the focus of the meeting.)

Academia is yet another field where 'shouten' is heavily utilized. Whether you are writing a thesis, reading a research paper, or attending a lecture, the concept of a focal point is foundational. Academic writing requires a clear, narrow focus to be effective. Professors will often critique student papers by pointing out that the focus is too broad or poorly defined. When reading academic literature in Japanese, looking for the word 'shouten' will often lead you directly to the author's main argument or research question. It acts as a signpost, guiding the reader through complex theoretical frameworks. For students studying in Japan, this is an absolute must-know word for surviving seminars and writing assignments.

Context 3: Academic Writing
Used to define the scope and main argument of research.

本研究の焦点は以下の通りである。(The focus of this research is as follows.)

Finally, do not forget its literal roots in photography and optics. While the figurative uses are more common in general conversation, any discussion about cameras, lenses, telescopes, or microscopes will rely heavily on this word. Photography enthusiasts will constantly talk about adjusting the focus, autofocus mechanisms, and depth of field (which relates to what is in focus). Even in this literal sense, the word retains its core meaning of bringing clarity and sharpness to a specific point. Whether you are discussing the latest smartphone camera features or analyzing a complex geopolitical issue, the word serves the same fundamental purpose: directing attention to where it matters most.

レンズの焦点距離を測る。(Measure the focal length of the lens.)

オート焦点機能が便利だ。(The autofocus feature is convenient.)

While 焦点 (shouten) is a powerful and necessary word, learners often make specific mistakes when trying to integrate it into their Japanese. The most frequent error involves incorrect verb pairings. Because 'focus' in English can be used as both a noun and a verb (e.g., 'I focus on my work'), learners often try to use 'shouten' directly as a verb by simply adding 'suru' (to do), creating the incorrect phrase 'shouten suru'. This is grammatically incorrect in Japanese. 'Shouten' is strictly a noun. To express the action of focusing, you must pair it with an appropriate verb, most commonly 'awaseru' (to adjust/align) or 'ateru' (to hit/shine upon). Saying 'shouten suru' sounds highly unnatural and immediately marks the speaker as a beginner. It is crucial to memorize the noun-verb collocations as single units of meaning.

Mistake 1: Using as a Verb
Incorrectly saying 焦点する (shouten suru) instead of 焦点を合わせる.

❌ 私は仕事に焦点します。
⭕ 私は仕事に焦点を合わせます。(I focus on my work.)

Another common mistake is confusing 'shouten' with other words that mean 'center' or 'important point', such as 中心 (chuushin - center) or 要点 (youten - main point). While they are related, they are not always interchangeable. 'Chuushin' refers to the physical or metaphorical middle of something, like the center of a city or the core of a group. 'Youten' refers specifically to the key points or summary of a text or speech. 'Shouten', however, implies a directed beam of attention or the specific point where an issue converges. If you say 'the chuushin of the argument', it sounds a bit odd, as arguments don't have a physical center; they have a focal point ('shouten'). Understanding these subtle distinctions is key to achieving natural-sounding Japanese.

Mistake 2: Confusing with Chuushin
Using 中心 (center) when referring to the focus of attention.

❌ 議論の中心がずれている。
⭕ 議論の焦点がずれている。(The focus of the argument is off.)

A third area of difficulty lies in the use of particles. Learners often struggle with whether to use に (ni), を (wo), or が (ga) with 'shouten'. When you are actively focusing your attention on something, the target of your focus takes the particle に (ni), and 'shouten' takes を (wo) before the verb 'awaseru'. For example, 'A ni shouten wo awaseru' (Focus on A). If you use the wrong particle, the sentence structure collapses. Furthermore, when describing the state of the focus itself, 'shouten' takes the subject particle が (ga), as in 'shouten ga boyakeru' (the focus is blurred). Paying close attention to these particle mechanics is essential for constructing grammatically sound and comprehensible sentences.

Mistake 3: Particle Errors
Using incorrect particles like 'de' or 'ha' incorrectly around the word.

❌ 問題を焦点に合わせる。
⭕ 問題に焦点を合わせる。(Focus on the problem.)

Lastly, learners sometimes overuse the word in casual conversation where simpler terms might suffice. While 'shouten' is excellent for business, news, and academia, using it to describe simple daily choices can sound overly stiff or dramatic. For instance, saying 'The focus of my dinner tonight is pasta' sounds strange in Japanese, just as it does in English. In such cases, simply stating what you want or what is important is more natural. Reserving 'shouten' for situations that genuinely require analytical focus, debate, or structured attention ensures that your vocabulary matches the register and tone of the situation. It is a sophisticated tool; use it when the context demands precision.

❌ 今日の夕食の焦点は肉だ。
⭕ 今日の夕食のメインは肉だ。(The main dish for dinner tonight is meat.)

文脈に合わせて焦点という言葉を使い分ける。(Use the word focus appropriately according to the context.)

To truly master 焦点 (shouten), it is highly beneficial to understand its synonyms and related terms. This not only expands your vocabulary but also helps you grasp the precise nuances of 'shouten' by comparison. One of the most closely related words is 要点 (youten). While 'shouten' is the focal point or the center of attention, 'youten' translates more directly to 'main point' or 'gist'. If you are reading a long document, the 'youten' are the bullet points you would write down to summarize it. The 'shouten', on the other hand, is the overarching theme or the specific angle the author is taking. You can think of 'youten' as the essential facts, and 'shouten' as the lens through which those facts are viewed. Both are crucial for comprehension, but they serve different cognitive functions.

Synonym 1: 要点 (Youten)
Main point, gist, essential point. Used for summaries.

話の要点をまとめる。(Summarize the main points of the talk.)

Another important related word is 中心 (chuushin), which means 'center' or 'core'. As discussed in the common mistakes section, 'chuushin' is often more physical or structural, whereas 'shouten' is about attention and convergence. The 'chuushin' of a city is its downtown area. The 'chuushin' of a team is its star player or leader. However, when discussing an abstract debate, you would use 'shouten' to describe the specific issue being argued over. While there is some overlap—the focus of a debate is often its central issue—choosing 'shouten' emphasizes the act of directing attention, whereas 'chuushin' simply describes a state of being in the middle. Knowing when to use which word adds a layer of sophistication to your Japanese.

Synonym 2: 中心 (Chuushin)
Center, core, heart. Used for physical or structural centers.

彼がチームの中心だ。(He is the center/core of the team.)

We must also consider 注目 (chuumoku), which translates to 'attention' or 'notice'. This word is very closely tied to the concept of focus. When a topic becomes the 'shouten' (focal point), it naturally gathers 'chuumoku' (attention). You might say that an issue is gathering attention (注目を集める), and therefore it has become the focus of the debate (議論の焦点となる). 'Chuumoku' is the act of looking or paying attention, while 'shouten' is the specific point where that attention lands. They are complementary concepts. In news broadcasts, you will often hear both words used in the same report to describe how the public is reacting to a specific event or policy change.

Synonym 3: 注目 (Chuumoku)
Attention, notice, observation. The act of paying attention.

世界中から注目を浴びる。(Bathe in attention from all over the world.)

Finally, a slightly more advanced but highly relevant term is 眼目 (ganmoku). This word translates to the main point, the core, or the primary objective. It is a more formal and literary word than 'shouten' or 'youten'. You might encounter it in legal documents, formal speeches, or classical literature. While 'shouten' implies a point of convergence or attention, 'ganmoku' implies the absolute most important element or the ultimate goal of an endeavor. It is the 'eye' (眼) of the matter. While you may not need to use 'ganmoku' in daily conversation, recognizing it when reading high-level texts will deepen your understanding of Japanese rhetorical structures and formal expression.

この計画の眼目はコスト削減にある。(The main objective of this plan lies in cost reduction.)

似た言葉のニュアンスを理解する。(Understand the nuances of similar words.)

How Formal Is It?

난이도

알아야 할 문법

Noun + の (no) + Noun (e.g., 議論の焦点)

Intransitive vs. Transitive verbs (焦点が合う vs. 焦点を合わせる)

Passive voice (焦点が当てられる)

Potential form (焦点を絞ることができる)

Volitional form (焦点を合わせましょう)

무료 가입하고 전체 설명 읽기

수준별 예문

1

ここを見てください。

Please look here. (Basic attention direction)

Using 見る (miru) to direct attention.

2

これが大事です。

This is important. (Precursor to focus)

大事 (daiji) means important.

3

真ん中にあります。

It is in the middle. (Physical center)

真ん中 (mannaka) means middle.

4

よく聞いてください。

Please listen carefully. (Focusing auditory attention)

よく (yoku) means well/carefully.

5

それに集中します。

I will concentrate on that.

集中 (shuuchuu) means concentration.

6

カメラを使います。

I use a camera.

Basic vocabulary related to optics.

7

ポイントは何ですか。

What is the point?

Using the loanword ポイント (pointo).

8

ここが中心です。

This is the center.

中心 (chuushin) means center.

1

勉強に集中しています。

I am concentrating on my studies.

〜に集中する (to concentrate on).

2

一番大切なことは何ですか。

What is the most important thing?

一番大切 (ichiban taisetsu) - most important.

3

カメラの使い方がわかりません。

I don't know how to use the camera.

使い方 (tsukaikata) - how to use.

4

話の中心は家族でした。

The center of the talk was family.

話の中心 (hanashi no chuushin) - center of the talk.

5

そこに注目してください。

Please pay attention to that.

注目 (chuumoku) - attention.

6

問題のポイントがわかりました。

I understood the point of the problem.

ポイント (pointo) - point.

7

目を凝らして見ました。

I strained my eyes to look.

目を凝らす (me o korasu) - to strain one's eyes.

8

的を絞って練習します。

I will narrow down the target and practice.

的を絞る (mato o shiboru) - narrow the target.

1

カメラの焦点を合わせる。

Adjust the focus of the camera.

焦点を合わせる (shouten o awaseru) - adjust focus.

2

議論の焦点がずれている。

The focus of the argument is off.

焦点がずれる (shouten ga zureru) - focus is off.

3

問題の焦点を絞りましょう。

Let's narrow down the focus of the problem.

焦点を絞る (shouten o shiboru) - narrow the focus.

4

今日の会議の焦点は予算です。

The focus of today's meeting is the budget.

Noun + の焦点 (focus of...).

5

焦点がぼやけてよく見えない。

The focus is blurred and I can't see well.

焦点がぼやける (shouten ga boyakeru) - focus is blurred.

6

新しい技術に焦点を当てる。

Focus on the new technology.

焦点を当てる (shouten o ateru) - shine a focus on.

7

彼の発言が焦点となった。

His statement became the focal point.

焦点となる (shouten to naru) - become the focus.

8

焦点を定めて研究を進める。

Fix the focus and proceed with the research.

焦点を定める (shouten o sadameru) - fix the focus.

1

今後の政策の焦点は環境保護に移行するだろう。

The focus of future policies will likely shift to environmental protection.

焦点が移行する (focus shifts).

2

メディアの焦点がその事件に集中している。

The media's focus is concentrated on that incident.

焦点が集中する (focus is concentrated).

3

論文の焦点が明確で、非常に説得力がある。

The focus of the thesis is clear, making it very persuasive.

焦点が明確 (focus is clear).

4

多角的な視点から問題の焦点を浮き彫りにする。

Highlight the focus of the problem from multiple perspectives.

焦点を浮き彫りにする (highlight the focus).

5

経営陣はコスト削減に焦点を絞り込んだ。

The management team narrowed their focus down to cost reduction.

焦点を絞り込む (narrow down the focus intensely).

6

焦点が定まらないまま議論が平行線をたどった。

The argument ran parallel (went nowhere) without the focus being fixed.

焦点が定まらない (focus is unfixed).

7

この小説の焦点は人間の心理の複雑さにある。

The focus of this novel lies in the complexity of human psychology.

焦点は〜にある (the focus lies in...).

8

社会的な不平等に焦点が当てられつつある。

Focus is gradually being placed on social inequality.

焦点が当てられつつある (focus is currently being placed).

1

本稿の焦点は、中世文学における死生観の変遷を解明することにある。

The focus of this paper is to elucidate the transition of views on life and death in medieval literature.

Formal academic phrasing: 本稿の焦点 (focus of this paper).

2

両国の主張が真っ向から対立し、交渉の焦点は完全にぼやけてしまった。

The claims of both countries directly conflicted, and the focus of the negotiation became completely blurred.

完全にぼやける (completely blurred).

3

マクロ経済の動向に焦点を据え、長期的な投資戦略を構築する。

Set the focus on macroeconomic trends and build a long-term investment strategy.

焦点を据える (set/fix the focus firmly).

4

そのジャーナリストは、権力の腐敗という一点に焦点を絞って取材を続けた。

The journalist continued reporting, narrowing the focus to the single point of power corruption.

一点に焦点を絞る (narrow focus to a single point).

5

焦点の定まらない散漫なプレゼンテーションは、聴衆の関心を失わせる。

A distracted presentation with an unfixed focus will cause the audience to lose interest.

焦点の定まらない (unfocused/wandering).

6

この条約の解釈を巡る法的な焦点は、第3条の規定に集約される。

The legal focus concerning the interpretation of this treaty is consolidated in the provisions of Article 3.

焦点が集約される (focus is consolidated/summarized).

7

事態の核心に焦点を当てることで、解決の糸口が見えてくるはずだ。

By focusing on the core of the situation, a clue to the solution should become visible.

核心に焦点を当てる (focus on the core).

8

彼の芸術作品は、日常の些細な瞬間に焦点を当て、普遍的な美を描き出している。

His artwork focuses on trivial everyday moments, depicting universal beauty.

些細な瞬間に焦点を当てる (focus on trivial moments).

1

存在論的な問いに焦点を回帰させることで、現代哲学の閉塞状況を打破し得る。

By returning the focus to ontological questions, we may break through the stagnation of modern philosophy.

焦点を回帰させる (return the focus).

2

その政策の焦点のブレが、結果として市場に甚大な混乱をもたらした。

The wavering of the policy's focus resulted in massive confusion in the market.

焦点のブレ (wavering/blurring of focus).

3

微視的な事象への過度な焦点化は、巨視的な文脈の忘却を招く危険性を孕んでいる。

Excessive focalization on microscopic events carries the danger of inviting the oblivion of the macroscopic context.

焦点化 (focalization - making something the focus).

4

議論の焦点を意図的にずらすことで、彼は自己の責任の所在を曖昧にした。

By intentionally shifting the focus of the argument, he obscured the locus of his own responsibility.

焦点を意図的にずらす (intentionally shift the focus).

5

歴史の闇に埋もれた無名の民衆の営みに焦点を照射する画期的な研究である。

It is an epoch-making study that irradiates focus onto the activities of nameless commoners buried in the darkness of history.

焦点を照射する (irradiate/shine focus).

6

多極化する国際社会において、安全保障の焦点はサイバー空間へと急速に遷移しつつある。

In a multipolar international society, the focus of security is rapidly transitioning to cyberspace.

焦点が遷移する (focus transitions).

7

作者は、主人公の内面的な葛藤に焦点を結ばせることで、読者の深い共感を喚起している。

The author arouses deep empathy in the reader by bringing the focus to bear on the protagonist's internal conflict.

焦点を結ばせる (bring focus to bear/converge).

8

あらゆる現象の背後にある普遍的な法則に焦点を透徹させることが、科学の究極の目的である。

Penetrating the focus to the universal laws behind all phenomena is the ultimate goal of science.

焦点を透徹させる (penetrate the focus clearly).

동의어

中心 重点 フォーカス 核心 的

반의어

周辺 末端

자주 쓰는 조합

焦点を合わせる
焦点を絞る
焦点がぼやける
焦点が定まる
焦点が当たる
焦点を当てる
焦点となる
議論の焦点
問題の焦点
焦点がずれる

자주 쓰는 구문

焦点を絞って話す
焦点がぼやけている
焦点が定まらない
今後の焦点
最大の焦点
焦点が移行する
焦点を明確にする
焦点が集中する
焦点を当てるべきだ
焦点から外れる

자주 혼동되는 단어

焦点 vs 中心 (chuushin - center)

焦点 vs 要点 (youten - gist)

焦点 vs 目的 (mokuteki - purpose)

관용어 및 표현

"焦点を絞る"
"焦点が合う"
"焦点がぼやける"
"焦点を当てる"
"焦点が定まる"
"焦点がずれる"
"焦点となる"
"焦点を据える"
"焦点を結ぶ"
"焦点を外す"

혼동하기 쉬운

焦点 vs

焦点 vs

焦点 vs

焦点 vs

焦点 vs

문장 패턴

무료 가입하고 모든 예문 보기

사용법

nuance

Implies a concentrated point of energy or attention, not just a general area.

frequency

High in professional and academic contexts, medium in casual conversation.

regional variations

None significant. Standard Japanese.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'shouten suru' instead of 'shouten o awaseru'.
  • Confusing 'shouten' (focal point) with 'chuushin' (physical center).
  • Using the wrong particle (e.g., 'wo' instead of 'ni' for the target of focus).
  • Using 'shouten' for personal concentration instead of 'shuuchuu'.
  • Overusing the word in casual, non-analytical contexts.

팁

Never use 'suru'

Resist the urge to say 'shouten suru'. It is a noun. Always use 'shouten o awaseru' or 'shouten o shiboru'.

Pair with 'awaseru'

The most important collocation to learn is 'shouten o awaseru'. It means 'to adjust the focus' or 'to focus on'.

Managing meetings

Use 'shouten o shiborimashou' (Let's narrow the focus) to politely get a derailed meeting back on track.

Academic writing

In essays, explicitly state 'honkou no shouten wa...' (the focus of this paper is...) in your introduction.

News keywords

When listening to the news, the word 'shouten' usually precedes the most important information in the report.

Shouten vs Shuuchuu

Use 'shuuchuu' for personal mental concentration (studying). Use 'shouten' for the objective center of a topic or debate.

Blurred focus

Memorize 'shouten ga boyakeru' (focus is blurred) to describe confusing arguments or unclear plans.

Target particle 'ni'

The thing you are focusing on takes the particle 'ni'. Example: 'Mondai (problem) ni shouten o awaseru'.

Finding the thesis

When reading Japanese articles, scanning for the word 'shouten' will help you quickly find the author's main thesis.

Polite disagreement

Saying 'shouten ga zurete iru' (the focus is off) is a polite way to disagree or point out a flaw in reasoning.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a SHOW (sho) in a TENT (ten). The spotlight is the FOCUS of the show.

어원

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

문화적 맥락

None.

Slightly formal, highly appropriate for business and academia.

Neutral. Can be used in both polite (desu/masu) and casual speech.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

대화 시작하기

"今日の会議の焦点は何ですか？ (What is the focus of today's meeting?)"

"そのニュースの焦点はどこにあると思いますか？ (Where do you think the focus of that news lies?)"

"少し焦点がずれている気がします。(I feel like the focus is a bit off.)"

"焦点を絞って話しましょう。(Let's talk with a narrowed focus.)"

"一番の焦点はコストですね。(The biggest focus is the cost, isn't it?)"

일기 주제

What is the 'shouten' of your language studies right now?

Describe a time when a meeting's 'shouten' was blurred.

Write about the 'shouten' of your favorite book or movie.

How do you keep your 'shouten' fixed when studying?

Discuss a recent news event and identify its main 'shouten'.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No, 'shouten' is strictly a noun. You cannot say 'shouten suru'. You must pair it with a verb like 'awaseru' (to adjust) or 'shiboru' (to narrow). For example, 'shouten o awaseru' means 'to focus'. This is a very common mistake for English speakers.

'Chuushin' means 'center' and is often used for physical spaces or structural cores, like the center of a city or the core of a team. 'Shouten' means 'focal point' and is used for attention, debates, and optics. You focus on a 'shouten', you stand in a 'chuushin'.

While you can say 'shigoto ni shouten o awasete iru', it sounds a bit technical. A more natural way for personal concentration is 'shigoto ni shuuchuu shite iru' (using the word for concentration). 'Shouten' is better for the focus of a project or discussion.

It depends on the verb. If you are doing the action (transitive), use 'wo' (e.g., shouten wo awaseru). If describing a state (intransitive), use 'ga' (e.g., shouten ga boyakeru). The target of the focus takes 'ni' (e.g., mondai ni shouten wo awaseru).

It can be, but it sounds slightly formal or analytical. You might use it when discussing a movie plot or a serious news event with friends. For simple daily things, simpler words are preferred.

Literally, it means 'the focus is blurred', like a bad photograph. Metaphorically, it means a discussion, essay, or plan lacks a clear central point or objective. It is a great phrase for constructive criticism.

You can use it to clarify the purpose of the email or a meeting. For example, 'Kondo no kaigi no shouten wa... desu' (The focus of the next meeting is...). It shows professionalism and clarity.

No. While it originated as an optical term, its figurative use (center of attention/debate) is far more common in daily Japanese. However, it is still the correct technical term for a camera's focus.

There isn't a perfect single-word antonym, but words like 'shuhen' (periphery) or 'mattan' (extremities) convey the opposite idea. If focus is lost, you can say 'shouten ga bunsan suru' (the focus is scattered).

The first kanji 焦 means 'to burn' or 'char'. The second 点 means 'point'. Imagine a magnifying glass focusing the sun's rays into a single 'point' hot enough to 'burn' a leaf. That is the 'focal point'.

무료 가입하고 팁과 노트 보기

셀프 테스트 180 질문

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

무료 가입하고 연습하기

관련 콘텐츠

이 단어를 다른 언어로

焦点 중국어
도움이 되었나요?

댓글 (0)

로그인하여 댓글 달기
아직 댓글이 없습니다. 첫 번째로 생각을 공유하세요!