Orientated vs. Oriented – Which is Correct?
In American English, “oriented” is the correct spelling and widely used, while “orientated” is considered a less common variant. Both words relate to the process of aligning or adjusting to a certain direction or context, but “oriented” is preferred in most formal and everyday usage.
Oriented or Orientated – Which is Correct?
The term oriented is considered the standard spelling in American English and is widely accepted in formal writing. The spelling orientated, while used in some contexts, is generally seen as less formal and is more commonly found in British English. In American contexts, it’s best to stick with “oriented” to ensure clarity and proper usage.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Oriented | Used in American English to indicate alignment or adjustment. | She is oriented towards a career in technology. |
| Orientated | Less common in American English, may appear in British contexts. | He was orientated towards the goals of the project. |
How to Use Oriented
When using the word oriented, it typically refers to having a specific direction or focus. It can describe a person’s mindset, a company’s mission, or a physical object’s alignment.
Example 1: The training program is designed to be oriented towards enhancing team collaboration.
Example 2: The organization is oriented around community development.
Example 3: Students are oriented to their new learning environment during orientation.
What are the different forms of Oriented?
“Oriented” is the past participle form of the verb “orient.” The base form is “orient,” and it can be conjugated into various tenses. The present tense form includes “I orient,” “you orient,” “he/she/it orients,” and the past tense is “I oriented.” The present participle is “orienting,” which is used in continuous tenses.
Etymology of the word Oriented
The word “oriented” is derived from the Latin word “orientare,” meaning to rise or to set in orientation. The term evolved in usage to indicate positioning in a metaphorical or literal sense, particularly in English in reference to guidance or direction.
How to Use Orientated
While orientated can be used in contexts similar to “oriented,” it is generally limited to British English. It conveys similar meanings concerning alignment or direction but is less preferred.
Example 1: The program was orientated towards improving student leadership skills.
Example 2: Their approach is heavily orientated in traditional values.
Example 3: Studies indicate that more students are becoming orientated towards vocational training.
What are the different forms of Orientated?
“Orientated” serves as the past participle form of “orient” in contexts where British English is prevalent. The base is “orient,” with the present tense forms being similar to “oriented.” For instance, “I orientate,” “you orientate,” and “he/she/it orientates.” The past tense is “I orientated,” while the present participle is “orientating.”
Etymology of the word Orientated
The term “orientated” shares the same Latin roots as “oriented,” stemming from “orientare.” Its usage in English has been more common in British English, signifying alignment or positioning in various contexts. However, it has not gained the same level of acceptance as “oriented” in American English.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the word “oriented” is the preferred spelling in American English, conveying the idea of alignment and direction. “Orientated,” while valid, is less frequently used and more common in British English. For clarity and standardization in American contexts, “oriented” should be the preferred choice.
