Delineation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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delineation
[ˌdɛlɪˈneɪʃən ]
Definition
articulation, representation
Delineation refers to the action of describing or portraying something precisely. It often involves outlining or representing the details of a subject, such as in art or writing.
Synonyms
depiction, description, outline, representation.
Examples of usage
- The delineation of the boundaries on the map was very clear.
- In her painting, the delineation of the human figure was remarkable.
- The delineation of the character's motivations was well done in the novel.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Arts and Literature
- In art, delineation refers to the careful outlining of shapes and forms to enhance clarity.
- Writers often use delineation to establish character traits, making it easier for readers to understand them.
- Delineation can also be an artistic technique in drafting architectural plans, providing detailed layout of structures.
Science
- In biology, delineation is used to define the boundaries of ecosystems or habitats.
- Geographers delineate regions based on various natural and human-made criteria.
- In medicine, it is important to delineate the boundaries of different tissues or organs during surgeries.
Law
- Delineation is crucial in legal contexts for defining property boundaries and ownership rights.
- It involves creating detailed maps and documents to avoid disputes between landowners.
- In statutes, clear delineation of terms helps eliminate ambiguity and ensure proper interpretation.
Psychology
- Delineation can aid in understanding personal boundaries and self-identity among individuals.
- Therapists often help clients with the delineation of their feelings to promote emotional clarity.
- In personality theory, clear delineation of traits helps in evaluating how individual differences affect behavior.
Origin of 'delineation'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'delineare', meaning 'to draw a line around'.
- It was first used in English in the late 17th century, originally related to art and drawing.
- The prefix 'de-' implies removal or reversal, which in this case adds precision to the act of outlining.
The word 'delineation' originates from the Latin term 'delineare', which means 'to draw a line' or 'to represent by lines'. This term is derived from 'de-', meaning 'completely', and 'lineare', meaning 'to draw a line'. As a noun, 'delineation' has been used in English since the late 17th century to refer to the action of outlining or describing something in detail. Over time, its use has expanded to include contexts such as art, literature, and science, where clarity and precision in representation are crucial. The emphasis on accurate depiction in various fields has made 'delineation' a valuable term in discussions of both visual and written communication.