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Obsess - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To obsess means to think about something constantly or excessively, often to an unhealthy degree. It can dominate one’s thoughts, making it hard to focus on anything else.

obsess

/əbˈsɛs/ /əbˈsɛs/

Definition:

To preoccupy or fill the mind continually and intrusively.

Synonyms:

preoccupy, consume, haunt, fixate

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

ignore, neglect

Common Collocations:

obsess over, obsess about, become obsessed with

Derivatives:

obsessive, obsession, obsessively

Usage Tips:

Use "obsess" to describe an intense focus, often implying it's unhealthy or excessive.

Common Phrases:

obsess over details, obsess about the past

Etymology:

From Latin "obsidere," meaning to besiege or occupy persistently.

Examples:

  • 1. She tends to obsess over small mistakes.
  • 2. He began to obsess about his health after reading the article.
  • 3. Don’t obsess over things you can’t control.
  • 4. Her work started to obsess her completely.

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