Delineate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
delineate
[dษชหlษชn.i.eษชt ]
Definitions
in drawing
To describe or portray something precisely. To outline or define the boundaries of something.
Synonyms
define, depict, describe, outline.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| delineate |
Suitable when providing detailed borders or boundaries, often in a technical or precise manner.
|
| describe |
Commonly used in everyday language to provide details about something in words, giving a sensory or emotional understanding.
|
| depict |
Appropriate for describing something through visual or artistic representation, such as illustrations, paintings, or words.
|
| outline |
Good for giving a general summary or overview without going into detailed information.
|
| define |
Used to explain the meaning or nature of something, offering a clear and exact description.
|
Examples of usage
- He meticulously delineated the details of the landscape in his drawing.
- The map delineates the borders between the two countries.
in speech or writing
To explain or set out an idea or concept clearly and in detail.
Synonyms
clarify, elaborate, explain, expound.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| delineate |
Use this word when you need to describe or outline something very precisely and in detail, especially in a formal or academic context.
|
| explain |
Use this word when you need to make something clear by describing it in more detail or revealing relevant facts, suitable for both informal and formal contexts.
|
| expound |
This word is appropriate for a detailed explanation, often in a formal context, sometimes used to discuss theories or principles in depth.
|
| elaborate |
Use this word when you need to give more details or expand on a particular point or idea.
|
| clarify |
This word is best when you need to make something easier to understand, often by removing confusion or ambiguity.
|
Examples of usage
- The professor delineated the key principles of the theory in his lecture.
- The report clearly delineates the steps to be taken for project completion.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Art
- Artists often delineate objects in their work, carefully outlining shapes to create depth and detail.
- The technique is crucial in drawing and architecture to separate different elements of a design clearly.
- Famous artists like Leonardo da Vinci used delineation to differentiate between light and shadow in their paintings.
Science
- In biology, scientists delineate species by describing physical characteristics and habitats distinctively.
- Geographers delineate political boundaries on maps to illustrate governance areas.
- In research, studies delineate variables and conditions to clarify objectives and results.
Literature
- Authors delineate characters through detailed descriptions, allowing readers to visualize and understand their traits.
- Delineation in literary terms also refers to how themes are separated and developed throughout a narrative.
- Poets might delineate emotions using vivid imagery and figurative language to express complex feelings.
Technology
- In programming, delineation helps in creating clear structures within code so itโs easier to read and maintain.
- Software development documents often delineate requirements and specifications to ensure all team members are aligned.
- User interface (UI) design involves delineating functionality through clear visual cues to enhance user interaction.
Origin of 'delineate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'delineare', meaning 'to draw or outline'.
- It combines 'de-' (meaning 'down' or 'from') with 'lineare' (meaning 'to draw lines').
- First used in English in the 17th century, it reflected the growing importance of precision in art and science.
The word 'delineate' originated from the Latin word 'delineare', which means 'to sketch out'. It entered the English language in the mid-16th century. The term has been used in various fields such as art, cartography, and linguistics to denote the act of outlining or describing something with precision.
See also: line, lineage, lineal, linear, lineated, lined, linen, lines, lineup, lining, online, outline, rectilinear, underline, underlining.