centre round or around. 'Their argument centres around the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act' {The Times}. Centre indicates a point, and a point cannot encircle anything. Make it 'centre on' or 'revolve around'.

๐Ÿ“– Bill Bryson

๐ŸŒ American  |  ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ’ผ Writer

๐ŸŽ‚ December 8, 1951
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In his book "Troublesome Words," Bill Bryson discusses the proper usage of the phrase "centres around," asserting that it is a linguistic error. He argues that 'centre' denotes a point, which cannot encircle anything, thus making "centres around" incorrect. Instead, he suggests using "centre on" or "revolve around" as the appropriate alternatives to convey the intended meaning clearly. The discussion emphasizes the importance of language precision. In the context of arguments or discussions, it's crucial to choose words that accurately reflect the relationships between concepts. Using "centre on" or "revolve around" maintains clarity, ensuring that readers or listeners understand that a subject or argument is the focus of attention rather than implying a spatial encirclement.

In his book "Troublesome Words," Bill Bryson discusses the proper usage of the phrase "centres around," asserting that it is a linguistic error. He argues that 'centre' denotes a point, which cannot encircle anything, thus making "centres around" incorrect. Instead, he suggests using "centre on" or "revolve around" as the appropriate alternatives to convey the intended meaning clearly.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of language precision. In the context of arguments or discussions, it's crucial to choose words that accurately reflect the relationships between concepts. Using "centre on" or "revolve around" maintains clarity, ensuring that readers or listeners understand that a subject or argument is the focus of attention rather than implying a spatial encirclement.

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February 18, 2025

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