"Orientating" is the less common spelling of "orienting" and the gerund form of "orientate," which means to position oneself relative to a specific direction or point of reference.

So you may be wondering is the correct root form of the verb "orientate" or "orient"? Both versions are acceptable with "orient" being more common in North America. The gerund form of "orient" would be "orienting," which holds the same meaning as "orientating."

Forms of "orient" would include "orientation" (noun), "oriental" (adjective), and "orientally" (adverb). Meanwhile, forms of "orientate" would include "orientation" (noun), "orientated" (adjective), and "orientatedly" (adverb). Notice how the only overlap is at the noun "orientation."

Example sentences

  1. The new employees spent their first day orientating themselves to the office layout.
  2. She found orientating in the bustling city challenging after moving from a small town.
  3. The astronaut had to undergo intensive training for orientating in the zero-gravity environment.
  4. The guidebook was helpful for orientating tourists around the historical landmarks.
  5. The students participated in an orientating session to get acquainted with the school's resources.
  6. The compass was crucial for orientating the sailors at sea during overcast weather.
  7. The scouts learned various techniques for orientating themselves in the wilderness.
  8. The captain used the stars to assist in orientating the ship's course during the night.
  9. The GPS device played a significant role in orientating us during the hiking expedition.
  10. The training program aimed at orientating new teachers to the school's teaching methodologies.

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Reference:

Language Navigator – orient, orientate, disorient
A writing tip on using orient, orientate and disorient.
Definition of ORIENT
to direct (something, such as a book or film) toward the interests of a particular group; to set right by adjusting to facts or principles; to acquaint with the existing situation or environment… See the full definition
orientating
1. present participle of orientate 2. to aim something at someone or something…