center
The French translation for 'center' is 'centre'. This word is commonly used in phrases such as 'le centre de la ville' meaning 'the city center'. Just like in English, it is used to describe the middle point of something, or a gathering place or hub. Note that unlike English, French uses European spelling conventions, hence 'centre' instead of 'center'.
The recycling center is close to my house.
Here, 'centre' is used in 'centre de tri', which is a place where waste is sorted and processed.
The research center is hiring new scientists.
'Centre de recherche' translates to 'research center', a place dedicated to scientific investigation.
I'm going to downtown.
In this sentence, 'centre' is used within the compound noun 'centre-ville', which translates to 'downtown' or 'city centre'.
The shopping mall is closed today.
In this example, 'centre' is part of 'centre commercial', which means 'shopping mall'.
The center of the Earth is very hot.
'Le centre de la terre' translates to 'the center of the Earth'.
I have a meeting at the convention center.
'Centre des congrès' translates to 'convention center'.
I live near the sports center.
'Centre sportif' means 'sports center', a place designed for various sports activities.
We will go downtown for lunch.
Again in this phrase 'centre' is used in the context of 'centre-ville', meaning 'downtown'.
The examination center was full of candidates.
'Centre d'examen' means 'examination center', a place where tests are conducted.
The Pompidou Center is a modern museum in Paris.
'Le Centre Pompidou' is a famous museum and cultural center in Paris.