What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orientate
Example
I need to orientate myself with the new office layout. [orientate: verb]
Example
It can take some time to orientate to a new country's customs and traditions. [orientate: infinitive]
orient
Example
We need to orient ourselves with the new software before we can use it. [orient: verb]
Example
It's important to orient to the local customs and traditions when traveling abroad. [orient: infinitive]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Orient is more common than orientate in everyday language, especially in American English.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between orientate and orient?
Orient is generally considered more formal than orientate, making it more appropriate for professional or academic contexts.
