Pivot: meaning, definitions and examples

See the first entry for 'pivot'.

Used to describe the middle point or main area of something, often physically or metaphorically. It can also denote something that is of utmost importance in a given context.

• The city center is always bustling with activity.
• At the center of the discussion was the need for educational reform.

Generally denotes a central location where activities converge or where things are coordinated. Often used for places or organizations serving as a focal point for transport, business, or communication.

• The airport is a major hub for international flights.
• The university’s innovation hub fosters start-up ventures.

Refers to the main point of interest or activity, or the act of concentrating attention or effort on something. It's often used in personal or academic contexts.

• The primary focus of the project is sustainability.
• She needs to focus on her studies to pass the exam.

Use 'pivot' when referring to a central point around which something turns or balances, or to describe a crucial turning point in a process, strategy, or conversation.

• The company's decision to pivot to online sales was a game-changer
• She pivoted on her heel and walked away

Use 'turn' in a general sense for changing direction or orientation, physically or metaphorically. It's the most versatile of the group.

• Turn left at the next street
• Her behavior took a turn for the worse

Use 'spin' to imply rapid turning around a central point, often with a sense of speed or dizziness. It can also mean adding a particular interpretation to a situation.

• The dancer spun gracefully across the stage
• The politician tried to put a positive spin on the bad news

Use 'rotate' when describing something that turns around its own axis or when referring to people or tasks taking turns in a sequence.

• The Earth rotates on its axis every 24 hours
• We rotate the team leaders every month to ensure everyone gets leadership experience

Use 'pivot' when talking about changing direction or focus in a way that maintains a central point or core idea. This is often used in business or strategy contexts.

• After realizing the initial plan was not working, the company decided to pivot to a new market strategy.
• The ability to pivot quickly is crucial in a rapidly changing industry.

Use 'shift' when referring to a significant change in position, direction, or focus. This can apply to physical movements, changes in opinion, or transitions.

• There has been a shift in public opinion on climate change.
• The workers shift the boxes to the left side of the warehouse.

Use 'reposition' when talking about changing the placement or positioning of something in a physical or strategic way. This is often used in marketing or with physical objects.

• The company decided to reposition its brand to appeal to a younger demographic.
• She repositioned the vase to catch more sunlight.

Use 'adjust' when making small changes or tweaks to improve something or to ensure it fits better. It is often used in everyday situations and has a more general application.

• You may need to adjust your seat for a more comfortable ride.
• The teacher adjusted the lesson plan to better fit the students' needs.