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reposition

C2
nounverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /rɪpəzˈɪʃən/

US

  • /ˌripəˈzɪʃən/

Description

Imagine building with LEGO bricks. You carefully place one, but then realize it does not quite fit, so you move it a little. That is what the word means: to move something to a different place, angle, or position. It is not about adding something new; it is about changing where something already is.

You might reposition furniture in your living room for a fresh look, or a surgeon might reposition a broken bone during an operation. Sometimes, companies reposition their products by changing how they present them to a different audience. The word usually suggests a careful change made to get a better result. Think of it as adjusting placement with a purpose.

Examples

  1. 1

    Photography

    The photographer asked me to reposition the lamp so it wouldn't block her face.

  2. 2

    Physical movement

    He repositioned himself closer to the screen so he could read the numbers.

  3. 3

    Product strategy

    After the first launch failed, the startup repositioned the app for older users.

    • Pattern

      reposition something for + group

      change it to suit that group better

  4. 4

    Brand image

    The brand is trying to reposition itself as a more affordable option.

    • Pattern

      reposition itself as + identity

      try to make people see it in a new way

  5. 5

    Workplace roles

    After the merger, several senior managers were repositioned into advisory roles.

    • Pattern

      reposition someone into + role

      move them to a different job

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • repositionnounverb