delineating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delineating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of clearly defining or outlining something, such as concepts, boundaries, or processes. Example: "The report focuses on delineating the key differences between the two methodologies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr Mordechai has submitted maps to the cabinet, drawn up by army planners, delineating what he calls Israel's "security interests" in the West Bank.

The Economist

Sometimes this technique is revelatory: at the start of the chapter delineating Mary's friendship with Ann Donnellan, Ms Peacock describes the portrait of a pair of Canada lilies as having the "lanky feel of two tall, talky girls"; instantly the young women spring to life.

The Economist

He could reform the CPP, which would include delineating a path for succession and making way for the next generation of leaders, and reach an accommodation with the opposition.

The Economist

But they are also increasingly fighting among themselves.Kurdish militias in the north-east, keen on delineating their own ethnic region, have engaged in bloody clashes against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a radical affiliate of al-Qaeda.

The Economist

In delineating the border line between the two territories, which directly effects its ownership of the country's oil reserves, the north has refused to co-operate.

The Economist

Just as gratingly, a new treaty delineating his republic's powers has been held up in Russia's parliament (the old agreement, signed in the laissez-faire Yeltsin years, has expired).

The Economist

Howard's writing was acclaimed for its technique as well as for its evocative, tightly drawn scenes delineating tensions and secrets between parents and children and between spouses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His religious philosophy affected modern thought by emphasizing the problem of delineating value from existence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His Fair Deal social programs, such as those delineating civil rights for African Americans, had been defeated during his presidency but were enacted in the 1960s and retained by Democratic and Republican administrations alike.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Another less direct technique for delineating unenforceable types of transaction derives from the common law's doctrine of consideration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One was parti-colouring, in which all garments, including hose, could be of one colour down one side and a different hue on the other, the dividing line thus delineating the form of the figure.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "delineating", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being defined or outlined. Use it to introduce a detailed explanation or distinction.

Common error

Avoid using "delineating" in contexts where simpler words like "describing" or "showing" would suffice. "Delineating" implies a more precise and detailed definition.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "delineating" is that of a present participle or gerund, often functioning as part of a verb phrase or as a modifier. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, demonstrating the phrase's role in specifying or clarifying boundaries, distinctions, or characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

34%

News & Media

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "delineating" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves the purpose of precisely defining or outlining something, making it suitable for formal and scientific contexts. While it's a valuable word for clear communication, remember to reserve it for situations where such precision is required. As the numerous examples on Ludwig show, "delineating" is most commonly found in encyclopedias, news media, and scientific publications, emphasizing its role in providing accurate and detailed information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defining

Focuses on setting out the meaning or scope of something.

outlining

Emphasizes creating a sketch or summary of the main points.

specifying

Highlights providing detailed and exact information.

demarcating

Suggests marking boundaries or limits clearly.

characterizing

Focuses on describing the distinctive features or qualities of something.

illustrating

Implies clarifying or explaining with examples.

portraying

Suggests depicting something in a specific way.

depicting

Implies representing something visually or verbally.

representing

Focuses on standing for or symbolizing something.

mapping out

Suggests planning or charting a course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "delineating" in a sentence?

You can use "delineating" when you want to describe the action of outlining or defining something precisely. For example, "The report focuses on delineating the key differences between the two methodologies."

What words can I use instead of "delineating"?

You can use alternatives like "defining", "outlining", or "specifying" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "delineating" and "describing"?

"Delineating" implies a more precise and detailed definition or outlining, while "describing" simply presents the characteristics of something. Delineating is used to set boundaries or clarify distinctions, whereas describing provides a general account.

Is it appropriate to use "delineating" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "delineating" is more suited for formal writing or technical contexts where precise definitions are necessary. In informal writing, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate.