A1noun1K

Center

UK /["/ˈsentə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈsentər/"]/

Definition

the middle point or part of something

In simple words: The middle point of something; a place where things are focused.

Examples

  • The center of the city is very busy.
  • She stood at the center of the stage during the performance.
  • In basketball, the center position is crucial for defense.
  • The park is located in the center of town.
  • He placed the vase in the center of the table.
  • In geometry, the center of a circle is its midpoint.
  • The center of attention shifted to the new speaker.
  • The data was analyzed from the center of the chart.

Usage notes

Use 'center' in both physical and abstract contexts, such as a town center or the center of attention. It's neutral, suitable for most situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of the word 'cent' — imagine placing a coin in the center of a circle.

Collocations

  • city center
  • center stage
  • center of attention
  • community center
  • center point

Synonyms

  • hub
  • core
  • middle
  • nucleus
  • focus

Antonyms

  • periphery
  • edge
  • outer

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'centre' in British English; remember 'center' is the American spelling.
  • Using 'center' as a verb incorrectly; it's primarily a noun in standard usage.
  • Mixing up the meanings in specific contexts, like distinguishing physical center vs. emotional center.