Central Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฏ
central
[หsษntrษl ]
Definitions
location
located in the center of a particular place or area
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| central |
Use when referring to the most important or main part of something, or a location that is at the center.
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| middle |
Use when discussing a physical location that is equally distant from the extremes or in the center point of something.
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| centralized |
Use when describing a system or organization that is controlled from a single point or place.
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| core |
Use when referring to the most essential or fundamental part of something.
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Examples of usage
- The central park is a popular spot for picnics.
- She lives in a central location, close to all the shops.
importance
of key importance or significance
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| central |
Used when talking about the most important part of something or when something is located in the middle of an area.
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| key |
Indicates something very important or critical to achieving a goal or understanding a concept.
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| essential |
Refers to something absolutely necessary, vital, or crucial for a particular purpose or situation.
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| primary |
Implied when something is the main or most important among other things, especially as a first priority.
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Examples of usage
- The central idea of the book is freedom.
- His speech focused on the central issue of inequality.
organization
the main part or core of something
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| central |
Used to describe something that holds an important or primary position within a system, organization, or place.
|
| core |
Denotes the most essential or fundamental part of something, often used in abstract contexts like beliefs or principles.
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| center |
Typically refers to the middle point or area of an object or location, but can also mean a place where specific activities happen.
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| hub |
Indicates a central point of activity, usually in the context of transportation, communication, or commerce.
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Examples of usage
- The central of the company is responsible for decision-making.
- She is at the central of the project, coordinating all the tasks.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, 'central forces' refer to forces that act along the line connecting the center of an object to a point, like gravity.
- In biology, the brain is often considered the 'central' organ of the nervous system, coordinating activities in the body.
- In technology, a 'central processing unit' (CPU) acts as the brain of a computer, processing instructions and managing tasks.
Culture
- In art, many compositions place the subject in the central position to draw the viewer's eye immediately.
- Cultural practices can also be 'central' to a community's identity, such as festivals or traditions that bind people together.
- In discussions about society, issues like equity are often viewed as central to creating a more just world.
Geography
- Many cities are designed with a central square or plaza that serves as the heart of social and civic life.
- In navigation, a central point on a map is crucial for orientation, as it allows for the measurement of distances to other locations.
- Countries often have a central region that embodies the national culture, economy, and governance, making it a focal point.
Psychology
- In cognitive psychology, central traits are those that have a significant influence on how others perceive a person's overall character.
- Central processing, in terms of information, refers to how we prioritize important details when making decisions.
- The concept of centrality in social networks describes how individuals or nodes at the core can influence the system extensively.
Origin of 'central'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'centralis,' which means 'of the center.'
- Its roots trace back to the Greek word 'kentron,' meaning 'sharp point' or 'center,' highlighting its significance in mapping or focusing.
- The term has been in use since the 15th century, initially applied to physical locations as well as abstract concepts.
The word 'central' originated from the Latin word 'centralis', which means 'related to a center'. The concept of centrality has been significant in various fields, ranging from geography to organizational management. The idea of being at the center or core of something has been associated with importance and power throughout history.
See also: center, centering, centerpiece, centrist.