Oriented vs. Orientated
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on September 25, 2023
"Oriented" and "orientated" are interchangeable, both meaning aligned or positioned relative to the points of a compass or another specified position, but "oriented" is more commonly used in American English.
Key Differences
When focusing on preferred usage, many style guides and dictionaries might note that "oriented" is the preferred form, especially in American English, due to its concise nature. However, "orientated" continues to see usage and is considered grammatically correct, particularly in British English. The usage of "orientated" might sound more formal to some ears, and it can be chosen for stylistic or rhythmic reasons in written or spoken English. Regardless of the minor differences in formality, length, or regional preference, the fundamental meaning of "oriented" and "orientated" remains the same, denoting alignment, adjustment, or positioning in relation to a specific point, direction, or set of conditions.
Janet White
Sep 25, 2023
"Oriented" and "orientated" are terms that revolve around alignment, direction, or positioning in relation to something else, commonly the points of a compass or another specific position. Both words essentially mean the same thing and are used to describe the adjustment or alignment of something or someone with specific conditions, directions, or requirements. "Oriented" is more commonly used, especially in American English, and is considered by some to be more modern and concise. "Orientated," while less common and considered by some to be more archaic or formal, is still correct and used, particularly in British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
In terms of grammatical structure and usage, "oriented" is considered a regular verb form, derived from the noun "orient," and is more concise. On the other hand, "orientated" is seen as an irregular or alternative verb form and is perceived as more formal or traditional. Both words can be used as past tense verbs or as adjectives to describe the state of being aligned or adjusted in a certain way. Their interchangeable nature means that the choice between "oriented" and "orientated" largely comes down to preference, regional dialect, or stylistic choice.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
The context in which "oriented" and "orientated" are used can be quite varied, encompassing geographical, personal, and organizational alignment or positioning. For example, you might say a map is "north-oriented" or "north-orientated," meaning the top of the map faces north. Similarly, a person can be "customer-oriented" or "customer-orientated," implying a focus or alignment with customer needs and satisfaction. The flexibility and synonymous nature of "oriented" and "orientated" make them applicable across a range of contexts, each adding a nuanced layer to the description of alignment or focus in question.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Comparison Chart
Common Usage
More commonly used, especially in American English
Less common, seen as more formal or traditional
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Grammatical Form
Regular verb form
Seen as an irregular or alternative verb form
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
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Regional Preference
Preferred in American English
Seen more in British English
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Oriented and Orientated Definitions
Oriented
Aligned or positioned in a specific direction or manner.
The house is oriented towards the east.
Janet White
Sep 25, 2023
Orientated
Aligned or directed towards a specific goal or object.
The course is career-orientated.
Janet White
Sep 25, 2023
Oriented
Focused or directed towards a particular object or goal.
The team is results-oriented.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
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Orientated
Positioned or aligned in a certain direction.
The tent is orientated toward the lake.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Oriented
Adjusted or aligned to specific conditions or requirements.
The program is oriented to beginners.
Samantha Walker
Sep 25, 2023
Orientated
Adjusted or arranged in relation to surroundings or circumstances.
The building is orientated to capture maximum sunlight.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Oriented
Aligned or set according to the points of a compass.
The map is north-oriented.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 25, 2023
Orientated
Adapted or adjusted to specific conditions, requirements, or contexts.
The software is user-orientated.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
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Orientated
Acclimated or familiarized with a new situation or environment.
The staff is well-orientated with the company policies.
Samantha Walker
Sep 25, 2023
Orientated
To orient
"He ... stood for a moment, orientating himself exactly in the light of his knowledge" (John le Carré).
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Orientated
Adjusted or aligned to surroundings or circumstances; sometimes used in combination; as, to get oriented on one's first day at a new job.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
To align or position in a particular direction or in a particular relation to the points of the compass
Orient the swimming pool north and south.
Oriented the telescope toward the moon.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Orientated
Headed or intending to head in a certain direction; as, college-oriented students. Opposite of unoriented.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
To build (a church) with the nave laid out in an east-west direction and the main altar usually at the eastern end.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Orientated
Adjusted or located in relation to surroundings or circumstances; sometimes used in combination;
The house had its large windows oriented toward the ocean view
Helping freshmen become oriented to college life
The book is value-oriented throughout
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
To determine the bearings of (oneself); cause (one) to know one's position in relation to the surroundings
Oriented himself by the neon sign on top of the building.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
To make familiar with a new situation
Events to help students get oriented to life on campus.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
To provide with a primary purpose or focus of attention
A medical system that is oriented toward the prevention of disease.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
Having a specific orientation (positioning#Noun or direction).
During assembly, keep the tab oriented toward the slot that it will later enter.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
(often with with or in) Having had an orientation (an introduction to a topic or place).
They are now oriented with the main campus.
I am no expert in geometry, but I am suitably oriented in it.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
Adjusted or located in relation to surroundings or circumstances; sometimes used in combination;
The house had its large windows oriented toward the ocean view
Helping freshmen become oriented to college life
The book is value-oriented throughout
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 12, 2023
Oriented
Adjusted or acclimated to a new environment or set of conditions.
He quickly became oriented to his new job.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
FAQs
Are "oriented" and "orientated" interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable as they essentially mean the same thing.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Which one is more commonly used?
"Oriented" is more commonly used, especially in American English.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Do they have the same meaning?
Yes, they both refer to being aligned or adjusted in relation to something else.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Is "orientated" considered correct in British English?
Yes, it is considered correct and is used in British English.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Which one is preferred in American English?
"Oriented" is generally preferred in American English.
Samantha Walker
Sep 25, 2023
Can they both be used as adjectives?
Yes, both can describe the state of being aligned or adjusted in a certain way.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Is "orientated" more formal?
It is perceived as more formal or traditional by some speakers.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Is "orientated" used to describe geographical positioning?
Yes, it can describe the alignment or positioning in relation to geographical points or directions.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Is one more correct than the other?
No, both are grammatically correct, and the choice largely depends on preference and regional usage.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Can "oriented" describe a person’s focus?
Yes, it can describe a person's focus or alignment with specific goals or needs.
Janet White
Sep 25, 2023
Is "oriented" a regular verb form?
Yes, it is considered a regular verb form derived from the noun "orient".
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Is "oriented" more concise?
Yes, "oriented" is more concise compared to "orientated".
Janet White
Sep 25, 2023
Can "orientated" be used as a past tense verb?
Yes, "orientated" can be used as a past tense verb to describe having been aligned or adjusted.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 25, 2023
Can "orientated" sound more formal or archaic?
Yes, it might sound more formal or archaic to some ears.
Harlon Moss
Sep 25, 2023
Are "oriented" and "orientated" used in different contexts?
They are used in similar contexts, but the choice between them may depend on regional dialect or stylistic preference.
Janet White
Sep 25, 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.
