Demarcation: meaning, definitions and examples

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demarcation

[ˌdiː.mɑːrˈkeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

border marking

Demarcation refers to the action of fixing a boundary or limits between two areas, often through physical markers such as fences, walls, or signs. It is commonly used to establish clear distinctions between territories, properties, or jurisdictions.

Synonyms

boundary, division, separation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
demarcation	Use 'demarcation' when formally defining or marking the limits or boundaries of something, especially in technical, legal, or geographical contexts. The demarcation of the property lines was essential to avoid disputes. A clear demarcation was established between the two departments' responsibilities.
boundary	Use 'boundary' when referring to physical, social, or metaphorical limits that one should not cross. It is often used in everyday speech to describe limits that divide spaces, fields, or areas of authority. The fence represents the boundary between our land and our neighbor's. Emotional boundaries are important in maintaining healthy relationships.
division	Use 'division' when indicating the act or process of separating or being separated, especially into parts, groups, or sections. It often implies an inherent difference or formality. The division of the company into different branches allowed better specialization. There is a significant division of opinion on this matter.
separation	Use 'separation' when talking about the act or state of moving or being kept apart. It is often used in personal contexts, therapy, and emotional discussions. The separation of the couple was tough on their children. A wall was built for the separation of the two offices.

Examples of usage

Surveyors were hired to carry out the demarcation of the new land plot.
The demarcation between the two countries was clearly defined by a river.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

distinction

Demarcation can also be used to describe a clear distinction or separation between different things, ideas, or categories. It is often employed to emphasize the boundaries between concepts or groups.

Synonyms

contrast, differentiation, distinction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
demarcation	Used when referring to the specific boundary or limit between two things. Often used in geographical, project management, or organizational contexts. The river serves as a natural demarcation between the two countries. There is a clear demarcation of roles within the team to avoid confusion.
differentiation	Used when describing the process of identifying differences between similar things, often used in marketing, education, and biology contexts. Differentiation in the market is critical for attracting different customer segments. The teacher's strategy included differentiation to meet the diverse needs of her students.
distinction	Used when pointing out the qualities that set one thing apart from another, often with a sense of importance or uniqueness. The distinction between the two species is primarily in their feather patterns. He earned the distinction of being the top student in his class.
contrast	Used when highlighting the differences between two or more items, typically to emphasize their distinct characteristics. Common in comparisons of visual elements, ideas, or situations. The stark contrast between the bright colors and the dark background makes the painting striking. There is a noticeable contrast in their approaches to problem-solving.

Examples of usage

The demarcation between right and wrong is not always black and white.
There is a clear demarcation between the responsibilities of the two departments.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'demarcare,' where 'de-' means 'from' and 'marcare' means 'to mark.'
It was used in the context of setting boundaries in geography and land ownership as early as the 17th century.
The prefix 'de-' is often associated with removal or separation, highlighting its use in defining limits.

Geography

Demarcation is crucial in geography to determine boundaries between countries, impacting politics and trade.
In cartography, specific lines on maps represent demarcations, creating visual distinctions between different regions.
The demarcation of territories often leads to historical conflicts, as seen in many border disputes around the world.

Law

In legal contexts, demarcation refers to boundaries described in property deeds that define ownership rights.
Disputes often arise over unclear demarcation lines, leading to court cases to establish rightful ownership.
Regulations sometimes create demarcation zones for activities like fishing or hunting to protect endangered species.

Science

In biology, demarcation is used to define different ecological regions, which helps in studying environmental impacts.
In scientific research, a clear demarcation between hypotheses ensures clarity in experimentation and results.
The concept also appears in physics, where demarcation can help distinguish between different states of matter.

Art

In visual arts, demarcation can be represented through contrasting colors or lines, guiding the viewer’s eye.
Artists often use demarcation to create boundaries in composition, highlighting focal points in their works.
The history of art features distinct demarcation between styles and movements, shaping the evolution of creativity.

Translations

Translations of the word "demarcation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 demarcação

🇮🇳 सीमा निर्धारण

🇩🇪 Abgrenzung

🇮🇩 penandaan

🇺🇦 демаркація

🇵🇱 demarkacja

🇯🇵 境界

🇫🇷 démarcation

🇪🇸 demarcación

🇹🇷 sınır belirleme

🇰🇷 경계

🇸🇦 تحديد

🇨🇿 demarkace

🇸🇰 demarkácia

🇨🇳 划界

🇸🇮 demarkacija

🇮🇸 afmörkun

🇰🇿 шекара белгілеу

🇬🇪 დემარკაცია

🇦🇿 demarkasiya

🇲🇽 demarcación

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,098, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14095 unheard
14096 monomer
14097 fascist
14098 demarcation
14099 clutched
14100 clipped
14101 soaring
...