Describing a person or a thought process that is focused exclusively on a single goal, subject, or point of view, to the exclusion of other considerations. This often implies a lack of flexibility, imagination, or the ability to consider alternative perspectives. An individual described as one-track-minded is typically intensely focused and may be perceived as stubborn or narrow in their thinking. The characteristic can be a strength in situations requiring unwavering focus, but can also be a weakness when adaptability and considering broader implications are necessary. This narrow focus frequently comes at the expense of other aspects or possibilities.
One-track-minded meaning with examples
- Her relentless pursuit of a promotion made her seem one-track-minded. She devoted all her time to work, neglecting her social life and family obligations. The constant pressure, driven by her intense focus, isolated her. She was so consumed by her career aspirations that she was unable to appreciate anything else, becoming completely absorbed in her single-minded ambition.
- The detective, renowned for solving complex cases, had a reputation for being one-track-minded. Once he identified a suspect, he would relentlessly pursue them, often overlooking other potential leads. This laser-like focus proved advantageous, but sometimes it hindered the investigation. His stubborn pursuit, while often successful, sometimes resulted in overlooking crucial details.
- After a major business failure, the entrepreneur became one-track-minded about avoiding a similar experience. Obsessed with risk aversion, he missed out on numerous beneficial opportunities. His unwavering focus on security blinded him to potential growth and adaptability, creating an inflexible approach that prevented him from capitalizing on emergent market changes.
- The artist, known for his distinct style, was accused of being one-track-minded. He refused to experiment with other forms of art, creating the same type of artwork for decades. His consistent approach, while appreciated by his loyal following, made his art feel static. Despite its popularity, his lack of artistic evolution made his work feel somewhat monotonous.
- The student who was one-track-minded was exclusively focused on obtaining top grades. He saw no value in extracurricular activities, social interaction, or personal growth. His relentless pursuit of academic excellence, though impressive, came at the cost of a well-rounded educational experience, limiting his holistic development and social skills.