Words / B2

LOHK-uh-lyz/ˈləʊkəlaɪz/

To localise is to keep something in one area, or to adapt it for a place (British -ise): localise an outbreak; localise a software build. Confine is close for spread; locate is only “find the place” (already in the dictionary). The outbreak was localised to one year group. Mix-up: local (adjective) / locate. US: localize. Do not write localise for “look up on a map” (that is locate).

Meaning

To limit something to a particular area, or to adapt it for a local place (British spelling).

Examples

• “The outbreak was localised to one year group, the trust reported.”
• “Localise the interface for UK spelling, which is the adaptation sense.”

Good to know

localise + noun + to; localisation. US: localize. Trap: locate / local. Health, IT, and geography. Contain or adapt, not “find”.

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