boundary
A boundary refers to a real or conceptual line that marks the limits or edges of something, such as a physical territory, a social interaction, or an academic field. As an adjective, it describes things that are situated on or define these borders and restrictions.
Examples
3 of 5The property is separated by a boundary wall that has stood for over fifty years.
The property is separated by a dividing wall that has stood for over fifty years.
The diplomats are meeting to resolve a long-standing boundary dispute over the coastal region.
The diplomats are meeting to resolve a long-standing border disagreement over the coastal region.
I think you're having a boundary issue if you can't say no to extra work every weekend.
I think you're having a personal limit issue if you can't say no to extra work every weekend.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'bound' (a leap or jump). A boundary is a line you are not allowed to 'bound' over without permission.
Quick Quiz
The river acts as a natural ________ line between the two neighboring states.
Correct!
The correct answer is: boundary
Examples
The property is separated by a boundary wall that has stood for over fifty years.
everydayThe property is separated by a dividing wall that has stood for over fifty years.
The diplomats are meeting to resolve a long-standing boundary dispute over the coastal region.
formalThe diplomats are meeting to resolve a long-standing border disagreement over the coastal region.
I think you're having a boundary issue if you can't say no to extra work every weekend.
informalI think you're having a personal limit issue if you can't say no to extra work every weekend.
The experiment focuses on the boundary layer between the two different gas pressures.
academicThe experiment focuses on the interface layer between the two different gas pressures.
Clear boundary definitions in the partnership agreement will prevent future legal conflicts.
businessClear limit definitions in the partnership agreement will prevent future legal conflicts.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
cross the boundary
to go beyond a set limit or rule
blur the boundaries
to make the distinction between two things unclear
set healthy boundaries
to establish clear personal limits for well-being
Often Confused With
Border usually refers specifically to the political line between countries, whereas boundary is more general and can be abstract.
A limit is often the maximum amount or capacity of something, while a boundary is the physical or conceptual edge.
Usage Notes
While commonly a noun, 'boundary' functions as an adjective in compound phrases to describe lines, markers, or specific conditions in physics and psychology.
Common Mistakes
Learners often omit the 'a' when spelling it, resulting in 'boundry', and sometimes use 'border' in psychological contexts where 'boundary' is the correct term.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'bound' (a leap or jump). A boundary is a line you are not allowed to 'bound' over without permission.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'bound' (a limit) combined with the suffix '-ary', originating from Old French 'bonde'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western psychology, 'maintaining boundaries' is a significant cultural concept regarding mental health, privacy, and social ethics.
Quick Quiz
The river acts as a natural ________ line between the two neighboring states.
Correct!
The correct answer is: boundary
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