What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orientated
Example
I need some time to get orientated to my new job. [orientated: past participle]
Example
The map helped us get orientated and find our way around the city. [get orientated: phrasal verb]
aligned
Example
We need to align our goals with the company's mission statement. [align: verb]
Example
The books on the shelf are perfectly aligned. [aligned: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Aligned is more commonly used than orientated in everyday language, especially in American English. Aligned is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while orientated is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orientated and aligned?
Both orientated and aligned are relatively formal words, but aligned can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while orientated is more commonly used in formal writing or speech.
