Focus word
Definition
A focus word directs attention to a particular person, thing, action or circumstance. Common focusing adverbs include only, even, also, just, especially, mainly and particularly.
Examples
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Only Maya signed the form.
Only focuses on Maya and excludes other possible people.
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Maya only signed the form.
Only focuses on the action and suggests that Maya did nothing more than sign.
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Even Leo understood the instructions.
Even marks Leo as an unexpected member of the group who understood.
Changing the position changes the focus
Only Nora lent Leo the book.
Nobody except Nora lent Leo the book.
Nora lent only Leo the book.
Nora lent the book to Leo and to nobody else.
The focus word normally applies to the element beside it, so position can alter the sentence's meaning.
Meaning depends on scope and context
A focus word can apply to a word, phrase or larger part of the clause. Careful placement reduces ambiguity, especially with only and just.
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Nora lent Leo only the book.
The focus is the thing lent: no other item was lent.
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The change mainly affects small businesses.
Mainly presents small businesses as the principal group affected.
Common mistakes
I only spoke to Maya yesterday when I also emailed her.
I spoke only to Maya yesterday when I also emailed her.
Place only next to Maya when the intended meaning is that no other person was spoken to.
Even understood Leo the instructions.
Even Leo understood the instructions.
Place the focus word directly before the element it highlights.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence means that nobody except Mina called?
Only Mina focuses on the subject and excludes other callers.Which sentence means that Leo was the only person called?
Only Leo focuses on the recipient.Which sentence marks the result as unexpected?
Even signals that this member of the set is surprising.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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