dwell on
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb: 1. To think, speak, or write at length about something, especially something unpleasant or troubling: To focus one's attention on a particular subject, often excessively or for too long. 2. To linger over; to be slow in leaving or changing a subject: To continue to consider or discuss a topic, preventing progress or moving on.
Usage
The verb "dwell on" is used to describe the act of giving something, typically a negative thought, problem, or memory, too much attention. It implies a repetitive or prolonged focus that is often unproductive. * It is a transitive phrasal verb and requires an object (e.g., a problem, a mistake, a memory). * It is often used in advice or warnings, suggesting that someone should stop doing it.
Examples
- Don't dwell on your past mistakes; learn from them and move forward.
- She tends to dwell on negative comments, even when she receives many compliments.
- The report dwells on the causes of the failure but offers few solutions.
- He asked me not to dwell on the details and just give him the summary.
Advanced Usage
- "To dwell at length on": An intensified form emphasizing an even more extended and detailed focus.
- The speaker dwelt at length on the economic challenges facing the region.
Variants and Related Words
- Dwell (verb): To live in a particular place. (Note: This is the base verb but has a completely different meaning from the phrasal verb "dwell on").
- Many species dwell in the deep ocean.
- Dwelling (noun): A place of residence; a home.
- They built a simple dwelling in the forest.
Synonyms
- Brood over: To think deeply about something that makes one unhappy.
- Fixate on: To focus one's eyes or attention on something obsessively.
- Linger over: To spend a long time over something.
- Ruminate on: To think carefully and deeply about something.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Dwell upon: A less common variant with the same meaning as "dwell on".
- It's not healthy to dwell upon what might have been.
Related Idioms
- To harp on (about something): To talk about something repeatedly in a way that is annoying to others. (This is stronger and more negative than "dwell on," implying nagging or complaining).
- He's always harping on about the cost of everything.