Centred vs. Centered: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 7, 2023
"Centred" is the British English spelling, while "Centered" is the American English spelling; both refer to being positioned in the middle or having a focus.
Key Differences
Centred and Centered essentially carry the same meaning, but their usage differs based on geography. While Centred is the spelling most commonly used in British English, Centered is the preferred spelling in American English.
Both Centred and Centered describe the act or state of being placed in the middle or maintaining balance. For instance, one might say the text is "centred" on a page in the UK, while in the US, the same text would be described as "centered."
In various contexts, both Centred and Centered can also mean being focused or calm. A person might be "centred" in their thoughts in British English, whereas they'd be "centered" in American English.
Centred and Centered not only vary in spelling but also in pronunciation to a slight degree due to regional accents. However, this distinction might be subtle and not immediately noticeable to the casual listener.
In essence, the main differentiation between Centred and Centered is regional preference in spelling, and neither is incorrect. The choice between them should be based on the audience's familiarity or the established conventions of a specific form of English.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
British English
American English
Usage
Common in UK and Commonwealth
Predominantly used in the US
Meaning
Positioned in the middle
Positioned in the middle
Secondary Meaning
Focused or calm
Focused or calm
Pronunciation
Slight variations due to accent
Slight variations due to regional accent
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Centred and Centered Definitions
Centred
Having a particular point as a focus.
The discussion was centred around environmental issues.
Centered
Positioned equidistantly from all extremities.
Make sure the image is centered on the canvas.
Centred
Being balanced or calm.
Yoga helps her remain centred during stressful times.
Centered
Positioned in the middle.
The title was centered at the top of the page.
Centred
Positioned in the middle.
The photograph was perfectly centred on the wall.
Centered
Being balanced or calm.
Meditation keeps him centered and relaxed.
Centred
Positioned equidistantly from all sides.
Ensure the logo is centred on the document.
Centered
Having a specific theme as a focus.
The conversation centered on recent political events.
Centred
Holding a central position in importance.
The plot was centred on a mysterious artifact.
Centered
Holding a central position in relevance.
The story centered on the protagonist's journey.
Centred
Simple past tense and past participle of centre
Centered
Being at or placed in the center.
Centred
Alternative spelling of centered
Centered
Having a specified center. Often used in combination
A soft-centered candy.
A yellow-centered daisy.
Centred
Same as centered.
Centered
Self-confident, stable, and well-balanced
"He's a centered guy. He's always seemed to know what he wanted, and gone after it in a concrete way" (Vanity Fair).
Centred
Ten 10s
Centered
Middlemost; located at the center
Centred
Concentrated on or clustered around a central point or purpose
Centered
Emotionally stable, calm, serene; having a balanced mind
Centered
Simple past tense and past participle of center
Centered
Being or placed in the center.
Centered
Concentrated on or clustered around a central point or purpose.
Centered
Being or placed in the center
Centered
Concentrated on or clustered around a central point or purpose
FAQs
Which form uses "Centred"?
"Centred" is used in British English.
Can I use "Centred" in American publications?
While understandable, "Centered" is the preferred spelling in American publications.
Are "Centred" and "Centered" synonymous?
Yes, they mean the same but are used in different forms of English.
Are there any differences in pronunciation?
Any differences are subtle and more related to regional accents.
Which is the correct spelling: "centre" or "center"?
"Centre" is British English, and "Center" is American English.
Do other words follow this "re" and "er" pattern between British and American English?
Yes, such as "metre" (British) and "meter" (American).
If I write for an international audience, which form should I use?
Choose based on your target audience, but be consistent in your choice throughout the text.
Which form uses "Centered"?
"Centered" is the spelling for American English.
Is "Centred" more commonly used in literature or technical writing?
Both, depending on the regional preference of the writer or publisher.
Is it wrong to use "Centered" in the UK?
"Centred" is more common in the UK, but "Centered" is understood.
Can both words mean being calm or focused?
Yes, both can describe someone who is balanced, calm, or focused.
Are the words used in technical contexts as well?
Yes, like "centred alignment" or "centered layout" in design or typography.
Are there any differences in usage between the two besides spelling?
No, the main difference is the regional preference in spelling.
Can "Centred" and "Centered" be used as verbs?
Yes, e.g., "I centred the image" or "I centered the text."
How do I know which form to use in academic writing?
Check the guidelines provided by the institution or publisher.
Can these words describe abstract concepts?
Yes, a discussion can be "centred" or "centered" around a theme.
How did the two spellings originate?
Language evolution and regional influences led to variations between British and American English.
Are there other words with similar meanings?
Yes, words like "middle," "midpoint," or "focus" can have related meanings.
Is "Centred" also used in countries like Australia and Canada?
Yes, British English spellings like "Centred" are common in Australia and Canada.
Do they have antonyms?
Yes, terms like "off-centre" or "off-center" can be used as opposites.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
