Centred vs. Centered: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || 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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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."
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Pronunciation
Slight variations due to accent
Slight variations due to regional accent
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
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Centred and Centered Definitions
Centred
Having a particular point as a focus.
The discussion was centred around environmental issues.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Centered
Positioned equidistantly from all extremities.
Make sure the image is centered on the canvas.
Harlon Moss
Oct 07, 2023
Centred
Being balanced or calm.
Yoga helps her remain centred during stressful times.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Centered
Positioned in the middle.
The title was centered at the top of the page.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Centred
Positioned in the middle.
The photograph was perfectly centred on the wall.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
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Centred
Positioned equidistantly from all sides.
Ensure the logo is centred on the document.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Centered
Having a specific theme as a focus.
The conversation centered on recent political events.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Centred
Holding a central position in importance.
The plot was centred on a mysterious artifact.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Centered
Holding a central position in relevance.
The story centered on the protagonist's journey.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Centered
Having a specified center. Often used in combination
A soft-centered candy.
A yellow-centered daisy.
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 22, 2023
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).
Sawaira Riaz
Jan 22, 2023
FAQs
Can I use "Centred" in American publications?
While understandable, "Centered" is the preferred spelling in American publications.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Are "Centred" and "Centered" synonymous?
Yes, they mean the same but are used in different forms of English.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Are there any differences in pronunciation?
Any differences are subtle and more related to regional accents.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Which is the correct spelling: "centre" or "center"?
"Centre" is British English, and "Center" is American English.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Do other words follow this "re" and "er" pattern between British and American English?
Yes, such as "metre" (British) and "meter" (American).
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
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.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
Is "Centred" more commonly used in literature or technical writing?
Both, depending on the regional preference of the writer or publisher.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Is it wrong to use "Centered" in the UK?
"Centred" is more common in the UK, but "Centered" is understood.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Can both words mean being calm or focused?
Yes, both can describe someone who is balanced, calm, or focused.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Are the words used in technical contexts as well?
Yes, like "centred alignment" or "centered layout" in design or typography.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Are there any differences in usage between the two besides spelling?
No, the main difference is the regional preference in spelling.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Can "Centred" and "Centered" be used as verbs?
Yes, e.g., "I centred the image" or "I centered the text."
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
How do I know which form to use in academic writing?
Check the guidelines provided by the institution or publisher.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Can these words describe abstract concepts?
Yes, a discussion can be "centred" or "centered" around a theme.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
How did the two spellings originate?
Language evolution and regional influences led to variations between British and American English.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 07, 2023
Are there other words with similar meanings?
Yes, words like "middle," "midpoint," or "focus" can have related meanings.
Sara Rehman
Oct 07, 2023
Is "Centred" also used in countries like Australia and Canada?
Yes, British English spellings like "Centred" are common in Australia and Canada.
Janet White
Oct 07, 2023
Do they have antonyms?
Yes, terms like "off-centre" or "off-center" can be used as opposites.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 07, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
