Center vs Centre
What’s the difference between them?
Center
Meaning:
Center: A point or place that is equally distant from all sides, ends, or surfaces of something; the middle.
Examples:
1. The school's library was located at the center of campus.
2. The center of the painting featured a beautiful landscape.
3. We gathered around the center of the campfire to share stories.
Centre
Meaning:
Meaning is the same, but such spelling is used in British English.
Examples:
1. The shopping centre was bustling with people.
2. He found his way to the centre of town.
3. She was the centre of attention at the party.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Center
1. Middle
2. Core
3. Central point
Periphery
Centre
1. Middle
2. Core
3. Central point
Periphery
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Center", "Centre".
1. Remember that the letter 'r' in American spelling is the last in this word.
2. Think of the word 'enter' when you see 'center' to detect the American English variant as they both have similar endings.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When to use the first word 'Center'?
The word 'Center' is used in the American English spelling of the word to describe the physical center or middle of something. It can also refer to something being 'centered' or placed in the middle of something. The word can also be used as a verb, implying to move something to the middle of something else.
When to use the second word 'Centre'?
The word 'Centre' is used in the British English spelling of the word to describe the physical center or middle of something. It can also refer to something being 'centred' or placed in the middle of something. The word can also be used as a verb, implying to move something to the middle of something else.
Do the words have the same pronunciation?
Yes, both 'Center' and 'Centre' have the same pronunciation. The pronunciations for both words are 'Sent-er' or 'Sent-r'.
What are common mistakes associated with words 'Center', 'Centre'?
The most common mistake associated with words 'Center' and 'Centre' is using the incorrect spelling for the context. For example, using the British English spelling 'Centre' for an American English text or vice versAnother mistake is using the wrong verb form 'centers' or 'centres' when referring to the past or present tense of the verb.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. The shopping _____ is just a few blocks away from here.
2. The earth orbits around the _____ of the sun.
3. The basketball player aimed the ball at the _____ of the hoop.
4. The city _____ was bustling with people and activities.
5. The conference _____ is equipped with the latest technology.
6. The circle was drawn with a dot in the _____.
1. Answer: center/centre.
Explanation: Both center and centre are correct, depending on the regional spelling conventions. Center is used in American English, while centre is used in British English. Both words refer to a middle point or a place designated for a particular purpose.
2. Answer: center/centre.
Explanation: Both options are correct. Center is the preferred spelling in American English, and centre is the preferred spelling in British English. Both words refer to a point that is equally distant from the outer limits of something.
3. Answer: center/centre.
Explanation: Again, both center and centre can be used, depending on whether American or British English is being used. Both words refer to the middle point of something.
4. Answer: center/centre.
Explanation: Both center and centre are correct, with the choice depending on the regional spelling preference. The word refers to a point or part that is equally distant from the whole’s outer limits.
5. Answer: center/centre.
Explanation: Both options are correct. Center is the American English spelling, and centre is the British English spelling. Both words refer to a place designated for a specific purpose.
6. Answer: center/centre.
Explanation: Both center and centre can be used here, depending on whether American or British English is being used. Both words refer to the middle point of something.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.