centering: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “centering” mean?
The action of placing something at the centre, or making something the main focus or priority.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The action of placing something at the centre, or making something the main focus or priority.
In structural engineering, a temporary framework (centering/centring) supporting an arch or dome during construction. Also refers to the psychological process of focusing one's attention or grounding oneself.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: British English prefers 'centring' for all senses. American English uses 'centering' for all senses. In construction terminology, both spellings are used internationally depending on local convention.
Connotations
Identical in meaning; difference is purely orthographic.
Frequency
More common in American texts due to spelling. The construction sense is rare in general discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “centering” in a Sentence
centering on/upon [object]centering around [object]the centering of [object]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “centering” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The article is centring on the economic implications.
- She spent the morning centring the clay on the wheel.
American English
- The debate is centering on healthcare costs.
- He is centering the lens before taking the photo.
adverb
British English
- Not commonly used as a standalone adverb.
American English
- Not commonly used as a standalone adverb.
adjective
British English
- The centring device is essential for the lathe. (as a compound adjective)
- A self-centring chuck was used.
American English
- The centering tool is in the workshop.
- It features an auto-centering mechanism.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used in strategic discussions, e.g., 'The centering of our strategy on core markets.'
Academic
Common in humanities and social sciences discussing discourse analysis, e.g., 'The centering of Western perspectives in the narrative.' Used in engineering for the construction sense.
Everyday
Most common in discussions about mindfulness, sports, or crafts, e.g., 'She found centering through meditation.'
Technical
Specific term in structural engineering for temporary support structures. Also in optics and mechanics for alignment.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “centering”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “centering”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “centering”
- Using 'centering' as a simple synonym for 'thinking about' instead of 'making the primary focus'.
- Confusing the spelling conventions between UK and US English.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are correct. 'Centering' is the standard American English spelling. 'Centring' is the standard British English spelling.
Yes, but typically in compound forms or technical contexts, e.g., 'a centering tool', 'self-centering device'.
'Focusing' emphasizes concentration of attention or effort. 'Centering' emphasizes making something the central, most important point or achieving a state of balance and stability, often from within.
No, it is a specialized term in architecture and civil engineering, not part of everyday vocabulary for most people.
The action of placing something at the centre, or making something the main focus or priority.
Centering is usually formal, technical in register.
Centering: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsɛntərɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsɛntərɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CENTRE (or CENTER). Adding '-ing' is the act of putting something there, making it the central point.
Conceptual Metaphor
IMPORTANCE IS CENTRALITY (e.g., centering a discussion on climate change). STABILITY IS BEING CENTRED (e.g., feeling emotionally centered).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'centering' a specific technical term for temporary support?