Oriented vs. Orientated: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || 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
"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.
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.
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.
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.
Comparison Chart
Common Usage
More commonly used, especially in American English
Less common, seen as more formal or traditional
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Grammatical Form
Regular verb form
Seen as an irregular or alternative verb form
Regional Preference
Preferred in American English
Seen more in British English
Length & Conciseness
More concise
Longer and less concise
Formality
Seen as more modern
Seen as more formal or archaic
Oriented and Orientated Definitions
Oriented
Aligned or positioned in a specific direction or manner.
The house is oriented towards the east.
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Orientated
Aligned or directed towards a specific goal or object.
The course is career-orientated.
Oriented
Focused or directed towards a particular object or goal.
The team is results-oriented.
Orientated
Positioned or aligned in a certain direction.
The tent is orientated toward the lake.
Oriented
Adjusted or aligned to specific conditions or requirements.
The program is oriented to beginners.
Orientated
Adjusted or arranged in relation to surroundings or circumstances.
The building is orientated to capture maximum sunlight.
Oriented
Aligned or set according to the points of a compass.
The map is north-oriented.
Orientated
Adapted or adjusted to specific conditions, requirements, or contexts.
The software is user-orientated.
Oriented
Orient The countries of Asia, especially of eastern Asia.
Orientated
Acclimated or familiarized with a new situation or environment.
The staff is well-orientated with the company policies.
Oriented
The luster characteristic of a pearl of high quality.
Orientated
To orient
"He ... stood for a moment, orientating himself exactly in the light of his knowledge" (John le Carré).
Oriented
A pearl having exceptional luster.
Orientated
To face or turn to the east.
Oriented
(Archaic) The place on the horizon where the sun rises; the east.
Orientated
Simple past tense and past participle of orientate
Oriented
Having exceptional luster
Orient gemstones.
Orientated
Alternative form of oriented#Adjective
Oriented
(Archaic) Eastern; oriental.
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.
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.
Orientated
Headed or intending to head in a certain direction; as, college-oriented students. Opposite of unoriented.
Oriented
To build (a church) with the nave laid out in an east-west direction and the main altar usually at the eastern end.
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
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.
Oriented
To make familiar with a new situation
Events to help students get oriented to life on campus.
Oriented
To provide with a primary purpose or focus of attention
A medical system that is oriented toward the prevention of disease.
Oriented
Having a specific orientation (positioning#Noun or direction).
During assembly, keep the tab oriented toward the slot that it will later enter.
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.
Oriented
Simple past tense and past participle of orient
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
Oriented
Adjusted or acclimated to a new environment or set of conditions.
He quickly became oriented to his new job.
FAQs
Are "oriented" and "orientated" interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable as they essentially mean the same thing.
Which one is more commonly used?
"Oriented" is more commonly used, especially in American English.
Do they have the same meaning?
Yes, they both refer to being aligned or adjusted in relation to something else.
Is "orientated" considered correct in British English?
Yes, it is considered correct and is used in British English.
Which one is preferred in American English?
"Oriented" is generally preferred in American English.
Can they both be used as adjectives?
Yes, both can describe the state of being aligned or adjusted in a certain way.
Is "orientated" more formal?
It is perceived as more formal or traditional by some speakers.
Is "orientated" used to describe geographical positioning?
Yes, it can describe the alignment or positioning in relation to geographical points or directions.
Is one more correct than the other?
No, both are grammatically correct, and the choice largely depends on preference and regional usage.
Can "oriented" describe a person’s focus?
Yes, it can describe a person's focus or alignment with specific goals or needs.
Is "oriented" a regular verb form?
Yes, it is considered a regular verb form derived from the noun "orient".
Is "oriented" more concise?
Yes, "oriented" is more concise compared to "orientated".
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.
Can "orientated" sound more formal or archaic?
Yes, it might sound more formal or archaic to some ears.
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.
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.
