Words / B2

konsn-TRAYSHUN/ˌkɒnsnˈtreɪʃn/

Concentration is the ability to give all your attention to something, or the amount of a substance in a mixture: full concentration, a high concentration of salt. Attention is everyday for the first sense; focus is a close cousin. Concentrate is the verb. In science, concentration is a measured amount, not “trying hard.” In speech, focus or paying attention is enough. Do not mix the two senses in one sentence without a cue.

Meaning

The ability to give all your attention to something, or the amount of a substance in a mixture.

Examples

• “The test needs full concentration.”
• “The listening test needs full concentration; phones stay in bags.”
• “A high concentration of chlorine made the water smell of the pool.”

Good to know

Full attention, or amount of a substance. Verb: concentrate. Everyday: focus / attention. Science: measured amount in a mixture.

Near in meaning

focus

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