center around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'center around' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you're referring to something that is focused or concentrated on a particular point or idea. For example, "This essay will center around the role of technology in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As the stylebook says, make it "center on" or "revolve around," but not "center around".

The New York Times

Movements that center around hashtags often don't center around leaders.

The New Yorker

My memories of childhood center around me — whose don't?

The New York Times

And, damn it, that's who the story will center around".

The New York Times

One initial plan could center around opening lines of credit among major central banks.

The New York Times

Blues songs center around the vocals--singers express feelings rather than tell stories.

Britannica

"I am always looking for articles, interesting quotes and things that center around my domain.

The New York Times

Many complaints center around lost features.

TechCrunch

They center around mobile, tablets, and deals.

TechCrunch

Topics center around her interests in marine biology and conservation.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

These intra-sector relations usually center around competition concerns.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "center around", ensure that the central theme is clearly defined and easily identifiable in your writing. This will help to maintain focus and coherence.

Common error

Be mindful that some style guides prefer "center on" or "revolve around" because "center" already implies being around a point. While "center around" is widely accepted, consider the context and audience when making your choice.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "center around" functions as a predicate, indicating that a particular topic, theme, or idea is the main focus of something. As Ludwig AI points out, it's widely used to describe the core subject matter.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "center around" is a common and generally accepted way to express that something primarily focuses on a particular topic or theme. While some style guides suggest using "center on" or "revolve around" instead, "center around" is widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its function as a predicate, specifying the main subject matter. As such, writers can confidently use "center around", especially when clarity and general communication are prioritized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revolve around

Focuses on the idea of something rotating or depending on a central point.

focus on

Emphasizes the act of concentrating attention or effort on something.

concentrate on

Highlights the gathering or directing of attention or resources to a specific point.

hinge on

Suggests that something depends crucially on a particular aspect or factor.

be based on

Indicates that something is founded or derived from a particular principle or idea.

be concerned with

Implies a focus on or involvement with a particular topic or issue.

turn on

Indicates that something is dependent on a specific factor or condition.

pivot on

Implies a change in direction or emphasis based on a central element.

be structured around

Indicates that something is organized or arranged in relation to a central element.

be predicated on

Suggests that something is based on an assumption or condition.

FAQs

Is "center around" grammatically correct?

Yes, "center around" is generally considered grammatically correct and is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. However, some style guides suggest using "center on" or "revolve around" as alternatives.

What does "center around" mean?

"Center around" means to primarily focus on something, with other aspects relating to that central point. It indicates that something is the main topic or theme.

Which is better, "center around" or "center on"?

Both "center around" and "center on" are acceptable, but "center on" is often preferred in more formal writing. The choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Can I use "revolve around" instead of "center around"?

Yes, "revolve around" is a good alternative to "center around". It conveys a similar meaning, suggesting that something turns or depends on a central element.