English Profile

central · adjective

/ˈsen.trəl/Full view

Word family

Nouns: center, decentralization

Adjectives: central, centrist

Verbs: center, centralize, decentralize

Adverbs: centrally

central (NEAR CENTER)

B1 in or near the center of a place or object

Dictionary examples:

central Europe/London

Of course, you pay more for a hotel in a central location.

Learner example:

We could go for a walk to the park in the central area of my town. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Italian)

central (IMPORTANT)

C2 main or most important

Dictionary examples:

a central character/figure

the central argument of the book

Her role is central to the movie.

Learner example:

As a central character, Piggy works both as a real boy and a symbol. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)

central (CITY)

C1 in the main part of a town or city

Dictionary example:

Our offices are very central.

Learner example:

The house location is very central, it is in South Kensington and it is [with]in walking distance [of] Gloucester Road Underground station. (International English Language Testing System; C1; Russian)

central (ORGANIZATION)

C1 always before noun controlled or organized in one main place

Dictionary examples:

central authorities/government

the US central bank

central control/planning

Learner example:

The contribution of the central government seems to be inevitable to complete the project. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Turkish)