centering on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "centering on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the main focus or central theme of a discussion, project, or piece of writing. Example: "The research paper is centering on the impact of climate change on marine biodiversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Spiritual counsel centering on one prayer.

The New York Times - Books

However, centering on one's basic beliefs helps focus gift-buying.

Huffington Post

CASP4 appears to be one target for the repressor complex centering on FE65.

Plosone

Spiritual counsel centering on Jesus' words in John 15.

The New York Times - Books

Three stories centering on romance and the supernatural.

The New York Times - Books

This is a call to begin a spirited discussion centering on such real healthcare reform.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unfortunately the yarns centering on kings, queens and apothecaries are a bit dull.

The Guardian - Film

Tease in Roslyn offered alternative dining by centering on small plates.

The New York Times

This series, centering on Tanner, returns tonight to the PBS "Mystery!" anthology.

The New York Times - Arts

The international channel will cover the global impact, centering on reports from London and Hong Kong.

The New York Times

The case exposed a baby trafficking ring that operated across several provinces centering on Zhang.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "centering on", ensure the subject it modifies is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what exactly is "centering on" the given topic.

Common error

Avoid using "centering on" with overly abstract or intangible subjects. It is best suited for scenarios where the focus is clear and concrete, rather than vague or conceptual ideas. For example, instead of "the discussion centering on feelings", consider "the discussion focusing on specific emotional responses".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "centering on" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to indicate the main topic or focus. It serves to specify what something primarily concerns or revolves around. Ludwig confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Books

11%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "centering on" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate the main focus or central theme of something. Ludwig indicates it is grammatically correct and widely applicable, it is "Very common" across various domains, including news, science, and literature. While alternatives like "focusing on" or "revolving around" exist, "centering on" carries a nuance of structuring or organizing around a core element. When using "centering on", ensure the subject is clear and avoid overuse with abstract concepts. According to the examples from Ludwig, it is typically considered neutral to professional in register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focusing on

Emphasizes a specific point of attention or concentration.

zeroing in on

Suggests a precise and targeted focus.

concentrating on

Suggests a more intense level of focus and effort.

revolving around

Implies that something is organized or structured with a central element.

hinging on

Suggests that the outcome or success depends on a particular factor.

based around

Indicates a central element or theme, similar to "revolving around".

predicated on

Indicates that something is based or founded on a specific assumption or condition.

fixated on

Implies an obsessive or unwavering focus.

dwelling on

Suggests a prolonged or excessive focus, often on negative aspects.

dedicated to

Implies a commitment or devotion to a particular purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "centering on" in a sentence?

You can use "centering on" to indicate the main focus or central theme. For example, "The debate is "centering on" economic policy".

What are some alternatives to "centering on"?

Alternatives include "focusing on", "concentrating on", or "revolving around", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "centering on" and "focusing on"?

While similar, "centering on" often implies that something is structured or organized around a central point, whereas "focusing on" simply means to give attention to something.

Which is more formal, "centering on" or "focusing on"?

Both phrases are generally acceptable in formal writing, but "centering on" may be perceived as slightly more formal or academic.