Topographic: meaning, definitions and examples

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topographic

 

[ˌtɒp.əˈɡræf.ɪk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

mapping

Relating to the arrangement of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.

Synonyms

cartographic, geographical, terrain-related.

Examples of usage

  • The map provided detailed topographic information about the terrain.
  • Topographic surveys are essential for understanding the landscape.
Context #2 | Noun

geography

A detailed description or representation of the natural and artificial physical features of an area.

Synonyms

chart, map, survey.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
topographic

Used when describing features and details related to the physical and natural landscape of an area. Often relevant in contexts involving geography, engineering, or earth sciences.

  • The topographic map shows the various elevations and terrain of the region.
  • Topographic analysis is essential for planning new infrastructure projects.
map

Applicable when depicting a graphical representation of an area, showing physical features, political boundaries, or other geographic information. Common in everyday use, travel, and geography.

  • We used a map to find our way through the city.
  • The world map in the classroom helped the students learn geography.
chart

Best used when referring to a graphical representation of data, often in the form of tables, graphs, or diagrams. Commonly used in contexts such as data analysis, finance, and navigation.

  • The sales chart indicates a steady growth over the last quarter.
  • The captain studied the nautical chart before setting sail.
survey

Used when referring to the process of collecting and analyzing geographical data or opinions. Relevant in contexts such as land surveying, market research, and academic studies.

  • The survey will help determine the new property boundaries.
  • We conducted a survey to understand customer preferences.

Examples of usage

  • The topographic showed the elevation changes in the region.
  • Studying topographics helps in understanding the landforms.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'topographic' comes from the Greek words 'topos,' meaning 'place,' and 'graphia,' meaning 'writing' or 'description.'
  • Used in English since the early 19th century, it originally described detailed drawings of landscapes.
  • The term's modern usage evolved to encompass both physical land features and their representation on maps.

Science

  • Topographic maps use contour lines to represent elevation, showing how steep or flat an area is.
  • Satellite imagery and 3D modeling have revolutionized how we create and analyze topographic data.
  • Geologists use topographic information to understand natural processes like erosion and sediment deposition.

Cartography

  • Topographic maps are crucial for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts for navigation and exploring terrain.
  • They showcase natural features as well as human-made structures like roads and buildings.
  • The use of color and symbols on these maps helps users understand different types of environments quickly.

Cultural Impact

  • Topographic features often have significant cultural importance, influencing settlement patterns and land usage.
  • Heritage sites and national parks frequently incorporate topographical data in their conservation efforts.
  • Art inspired by landscapes often depicts the varied topographies of regions, highlighting their beauty and complexity.

Navigation and Technology

  • GPS technology integrates topographic data to provide accurate location information in real time.
  • Apps and devices for outdoor activities typically rely on topographic information for best route planning.
  • Drone technology has enhanced the capability to gather topographic data, making it easier to create detailed maps.

Translations

Translations of the word "topographic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 topográfico

🇮🇳 स्थलाकृतिक

🇩🇪 topografisch

🇮🇩 topografis

🇺🇦 топографічний

🇵🇱 topograficzny

🇯🇵 地形の

🇫🇷 topographique

🇪🇸 topográfico

🇹🇷 topografik

🇰🇷 지형의

🇸🇦 طبوغرافي

🇨🇿 topografický

🇸🇰 topografický

🇨🇳 地形的

🇸🇮 topografski

🇮🇸 landfræðilegur

🇰🇿 топографиялық

🇬🇪 ტოპოგრაფიული

🇦🇿 topoqrafik

🇲🇽 topográfico

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,462, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.