delineate
/ˈdɛl.ɪ.neɪt/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To describe or show something exactly and in detail, so that it is clear in your mind or on paper.
- The report delineates the main risks clearly.
- She delineated the policy changes for the team.
Adinary Nuance
Near-neighbors: delineate is more exact and formal than describe, similar to outline, but less everyday than map. Writers choose it to stress careful detail and clear limits rather than casual explanation.
In other languages
- Spanish
- describir con detalle
- Japanese
- 詳細に示す
- Korean
- 상세히 설명하다
- Vietnamese
- nêu rõ
- Chinese
- 详细说明
Etymology
From Latin delineare 'to draw the figure of,' from de- 'down' + linea 'line.' The root sense of marking lines informs careful description.
Common phrases
delineate the boundariesclearly delineatedelineate the plan
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is delineate formal or informal?
- It is more formal and precise; suitable for academic and professional writing.
- What's the difference between delineate and describe?
- Delineate focuses on outlining details; describe is more general.
- How do I use delineate in a sentence?
- Use it to explain limits, roles, or concepts clearly in essays or reports.
- Is delineate used in business writing?
- Yes, it is common in academic, business, and test writing.