1
Core action
Describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
Example
The treaty delineates the border precisely.
delineate
/dɪˈlɪnieɪt/ · dih-LIN-ee-aytverb
Describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
Use delineate to express this relationship precisely: describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
What delineate Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The report delineates each agency's responsibility.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Fine lines delineate the figure against the background.
Use delineate Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The treaty delineates the border precisely.
The report delineates each agency's responsibility.
Fine lines delineate the figure against the background.
Precision Matters
Delineate overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
delineate
vs.Means describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
obfuscate
Means make an idea, issue, or statement unclear, confusing, or difficult to understand.
delineate
vs.Means describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
embellish
Means make something more attractive or interesting by adding decorative or invented details.
delineate
vs.Means describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
allude
Means refer to someone or something indirectly rather than naming or explaining it explicitly.
delineate
vs.Means describe, represent, or mark the boundaries or essential features of something precisely.
clarity
Means the quality of being clear, intelligible, precise, or easy to perceive.
Test delineate in Context
They define and outline those powers precisely.
1
The charter's articles carefully ___ the powers assigned to each branch of government.