center of attention
Học thuậtThân thiện
The little girl in the sparkly dress became the center of attention at the birthday party.
Definition
Noun: The person, thing, or idea that is the primary focus of interest, observation, or discussion in a given situation.
Usage
This noun phrase describes the main subject that draws and holds the interest of a group. It is typically used with the definite article "the" (e.g., the center of attention). It can refer to people, objects, or events.
Examples
- The newborn baby was the center of attention at the family gathering.
- With its stunning design, the new sculpture quickly became the center of attention in the gallery.
- She felt uncomfortable being the center of attention during the award ceremony.
Advanced Usage
- To be/stand at the center of attention: A more formal or literary variant with the same meaning.
- The controversial policy stood at the center of attention for weeks.
- To crave/seek/love being the center of attention: Describes a person who enjoys being the focus.
- As a performer, he naturally loves being the center of attention.
- To shy away from/avoid the center of attention: Describes a person who dislikes being the focus.
- She is a private person who shies away from the center of attention.
Variants and Related Words
- Focal point: A more general term for the central point of interest or activity.
- Star of the show: An idiomatic phrase often used when the center of attention is a person being celebrated.
- Lime light: (Idiom) Public attention or notice. (e.g., )
Synonyms
- Focus
- Main attraction
- Highlight
Antonyms
- Wallflower (a person who avoids attention)
- Background
Related Idioms
- To steal the show: To attract the most attention and praise, often away from someone or something else.
- The veteran actor was supposed to be the star, but the young newcomer stole the show.
- To be in the spotlight: To be the center of public attention.
- The company is in the spotlight following the product launch.
The little girl in the sparkly dress became the center of attention at the birthday party.
Noun
- the object upon which interest and attention focuses
- his stories made him the center of the party