one-track mind: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘one-track mind’ mean?
The idiom "one-track mind" refers to a person who is obsessively focused on a single idea or goal and is unable to consider or pay attention to anything else.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take one's eye off the ball" means to lose focus or become distracted from an important task or goal.
The idiom *put one's mind to it* means to concentrate or focus one's thoughts and efforts on a particular task or goal.
The idiom "out of one's mind" means to be mentally deranged or insane.
The idiom "on track" means to be progressing or moving forward in a positive and successful way, often in relation to a plan or goal.
"One-trick pony" refers to someone or something that is only skilled or proficient in doing one thing, making them limited or one-dimensional in their abilities or talents.
"One-note" as an idiom refers to someone or something that is limited in their abilities or characteristics, lacking variety or depth. It implies a lack of range or flexibility, often used to describe a person who has a single focus or interest.
The idiom "one-note" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used to describe someone or something that lacks variety or depth and instead remains monotone or predictable.
The idiom "one-hit wonder" refers to a person or thing that experiences a brief period of success or fame, particularly in the music industry, but is unable to repeat or sustain that success in the long term.
The idiom *one and the same* means that two or more things or people are identical or indistinguishable from each other.
The idiom "one and only" means the unique or singular example of something or someone. It emphasizes that there is no other comparable or similar entity.
One-Track Revelation
A person with a one-track mind is often described as having a singular focus or being fixated on a particular idea or goal. This intense level of concentration can be both a positive and a negative trait, depending on the context. It can indicate a strong dedication and determination towards achieving a specific objective, reflecting a high level of focus and concentration. In a positive sense, it can imply that the person is committed and driven to succeed.
However, a one-track mind can also be seen as a negative trait, suggesting a lack of flexibility or open-mindedness. It can imply narrow thinking and an inability to consider alternative viewpoints or possibilities. Individuals with a one-track mind may be so focused on their single goal or interest that they disregard any other concerns or distractions. Their unwavering dedication may lead to tunnel vision, preventing them from seeing the bigger picture.
A related idiom, "one-note", is often used to describe someone who is repetitive or monotonous in their thinking or behavior. This idiom suggests that the person lacks depth or complexity, being singularly focused on a single idea or point of view. It shares similarities with the concept of a one-track mind, as both idioms imply a limited perspective and an inability to consider alternative options.
Another idiom related to a one-track mind is "keep one's eye on the ball". This expression is often used in sports, referring to the importance of maintaining focus and concentration. It emphasizes the need to pay attention and not get distracted or lose sight of the ultimate goal or objective. Someone with a one-track mind can be seen as embodying this idiom, as they are able to stay focused on their singular goal without letting anything else divert their attention.
On the other hand, "take one's eye off the ball" is an idiom that suggests a loss of focus or attention. It implies a momentary distraction or lapse in concentration, which can lead to mistakes or failures. Individuals with a one-track mind are less likely to take their eye off the ball, as they are fully committed to their single goal or interest. They are less prone to distractions and more capable of maintaining their unwavering dedication.
The visual imagery of a railroad track is often used to represent a one-track mind. Similar to a train moving along a single track, individuals with a one-track mind are unable to deviate from their chosen path. They are steadfast in their pursuits, refusing to be swayed or distracted by other possibilities. This metaphor emphasizes the inflexibility and single-mindedness that the idiom conveys.
A one-track mind is an idiomatic expression that describes someone who is excessively focused or preoccupied with a single idea or subject. It can reflect a high level of dedication and determination, but it can also imply a lack of flexibility or open-mindedness. Related idioms such as "one-note", "keep one's eye on the ball", and "take one's eye off the ball" further emphasize the concept of singular focus and the importance of concentration. The imagery of a railroad track helps illustrate the inflexibility and unwavering dedication associated with a one-track mind. Whether seen as a positive or negative trait, a one-track mind captures the essence of intense concentration and commitment.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *one-track mind* can be used in a sentence:
- She has a one-track mind when it comes to her career, always focusing on advancing and achieving success.
- His one-track mind for exercise means he rarely takes a day off from the gym.
- Despite the distractions around him, the detective had a one-track mind, determined to solve the case.
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