located

"Located" is a versatile word with a couple of closely related but distinct uses. It most commonly describes where something or someone is positioned in space, but it can also describe the act of finding something. Here are the most useful senses.

1adjectivepositioned in a place

When something is 'located' somewhere, it simply means it exists or sits in that particular place. Think of it as a more formal way of saying 'found at' or 'situated at'. You use it to tell someone where something is.

everyday language · Modern, widely used

The hospital is located in the center of the city.

Our office is located on the third floor of the building.

The village is located near a beautiful river.

2verbto find something or someone

When you 'locate' something, you search for it and successfully find it or figure out where it is. Imagine you lost your keys — when you finally find them, you have 'located' them.

everyday language, science, emergency services · Modern, widely used

The rescue team was able to locate the missing hikers.

Can you help me locate the nearest pharmacy?

Scientists located a new species of fish deep in the ocean.

3verbto establish something in a place

This sense is used when a person or organization deliberately chooses to place or set up something in a specific location. For example, a company might decide where to open a new branch — they are choosing where to 'locate' it.

business, urban planning · Modern, used in formal and professional contexts

The company decided to locate its new headquarters in Berlin.

They located the factory near the port to make shipping easier.

The government plans to locate the new school in the northern district.