demarcation line

USAGE SUMMARY

"demarcation line" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a clear and distinct boundary, such as a line that marks the separation between two territories. For example, "The two countries established a demarcation line to determine their respective borders."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The demarcation line between work and life is eroding.

The Guardian - Money

There is a clear, distinct, very honorably observed demarcation line.

The New York Times

Bridge crossing the military demarcation line between North and South Korea, P'anmunjŏm, central Korea.

Britannica

In Antakya residents are calling the new demarcation line "the Berlin Wall".

The Guardian

Portugal was granted similar rights of exploration east of the demarcation line.

Britannica

Usually, the bulk material/AMZ transformation is gradual and often there is no clear demarcation line.

Manufacturing Surface Technology Surface Integrity & Functional Performance

Here, we investigate the formation of demarcation line with a mathematical model.

Biophysical Journal

I was shown into a little hut that straddles the demarcation line.

Independent

Seventeenth parallel, the provisional military demarcation line established in Vietnam by the Geneva Accords (1954).

Encyclopedia Britannica

A cease-fire was agreed upon and a temporary demarcation line partitioned (1949) the disputed state.

The Washington Post

"The Main", as it came to be known, was the unofficial demarcation line between the city's anglophones and francophones.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "demarcation line" when referring to a clearly defined boundary, whether physical or abstract. For instance, use it to describe the border between countries or the distinction between different fields of study.

Common error

While "demarcation line" is appropriate in formal writing, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Simpler terms like "boundary" or "dividing line" often sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demarcation line" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a boundary or border, typically one that is clearly defined or formally established. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "demarcation line" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that refers to a clearly defined boundary or division. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media, scientific articles, and encyclopedic entries, signifying its relevance across various domains. While versatile, it's best suited for formal or neutral contexts. Simpler alternatives, such as "boundary line" or "dividing line", can be more appropriate for informal communication. When using "demarcation line", ensure that the context warrants a precise and often formally established border or separation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Line of demarcation

A variation that changes the order of the words without significant semantic shift.

Boundary line

Focuses on the boundary aspect, emphasizing the limit or border rather than the act of demarcation.

Dividing line

Highlights the separation aspect, suggesting a clear division between two things.

Borderline

Emphasizes the area close to the border, or a state of being on the edge of something.

Line of separation

More explicitly describes the act of separating, adding emphasis to the division.

Division boundary

Combines the concepts of division and boundary, implying a more formal separation.

Distinction line

Highlights that the boundary serves to distinguish between two separate things.

Cutoff point

Suggests a specific point where something changes or ends.

Margin

Implies a less precise boundary, more of an area than a distinct line.

Limit

Focuses on the restriction or end point rather than the division itself.

FAQs

How can I use "demarcation line" in a sentence?

You can use "demarcation line" to refer to a boundary or a division. For example: "The treaty established a clear "demarcation line" between the two territories."

What's the difference between "boundary line" and "demarcation line"?

"Boundary line" generally refers to any line that marks a border, while "demarcation line" often implies a more deliberate and formal establishment of that boundary.

What can I say instead of "demarcation line"?

You can use alternatives like "boundary line", "dividing line", or "borderline" depending on the specific context.

Is "demarcation line" appropriate for informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "demarcation line" may sound overly formal in some informal contexts. Consider using simpler alternatives like "division" or "separation" when writing casually.