The point where an earthquake begins is called the focus, also known as the hypocenter.

Here's a breakdown:

* Focus/Hypocenter: This is the actual point *underground* where the earthquake originates. It's the spot where the rocks first break and slip.

* Epicenter: This is the point on the Earth's *surface* directly above the focus. It's the location where the earthquake's effects are usually strongest.

Think of it like this: imagine you drop a stone in a pond. The focus is where the stone hits the water, and the epicenter is the spot on the surface right above the splash.