Orient:
* More common and versatile: "Orient" is the more common and versatile word, used in a wider range of contexts.
* Focus on direction: It often implies finding or establishing one's direction or position, especially in relation to something else.
* Example: "We oriented ourselves using the map."
Orientate:
* More formal and technical: "Orientate" is considered more formal and technical, often used in specific fields like architecture, engineering, or psychology.
* Focus on adjusting or adapting: It implies adjusting or adapting oneself to a new environment or situation.
* Example: "The company orientated its new employees to the company culture."
In general:
* You can often use "orient" in place of "orientate" without any real difference in meaning.
* "Orientate" might sound slightly more formal or technical in certain situations.
However:
* "Orient" can also be a noun meaning "the East." "Orientate" is never used as a noun.
Ultimately, both words are acceptable, but "orient" is more common and generally preferred.