noun

delineation

/ˌdɛlɪˈneɪʃən/ · say it: del·uh·NAY·shun

precise description or portrayal

In Nuance & Precision

In more detail

1. (noun) the act of drawing or describing the outline or edge of something

2. (noun) a clear description or account of something, especially showing its main features or boundaries

3. (noun) a line that marks the border or edge between two things

Examples

1. The map shows a clear delineation of the forest boundaries.
2. The report provided a detailed delineation of the company's responsibilities.
3. There is a sharp delineation between the dark and light areas in the painting.

How to use delineation

Delineation is used in formal contexts to describe either the act of drawing/marking a boundary or providing a detailed account of something's features or scope. It emphasizes clarity and precision, particularly when distinguishing one thing from another or explaining what something encompasses. The word carries a slightly formal or technical tone compared to simpler synonyms like 'outline' or 'boundary'.

Common phrases

clear delineation
delineation of responsibilities
delineation between
precise delineation
geographical delineation

Synonyms

outline · demarcation · description · depiction · boundary

Word family

delineate (verb) · delineated (adjective) · delineating (verb form)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use delineation when they simply mean 'a line' or 'a border' without the sense of clear description or demarcation involved in the act; delineation implies intentional clarification or marking, not just the existence of a boundary.

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