The correct spelling of the word "demarcation" is /dɪˌmɑːkˈeɪʃ(ə)n/. It is often misspelled as "demarkation" which is incorrect. The word comes from the Latin "demarcare" meaning "to set boundaries." It refers to the act of marking off a boundary or line between two areas or territories. The proper use of this word is important in legal, political, and geographical contexts. Therefore, it is essential to spell this word correctly to avoid any misunderstanding or confusion.
Demarcation refers to the act or process of establishing clear boundaries, limits, or distinctions between different entities, territories, or ideas. It involves marking or defining the specific points or lines that separate one area or concept from another. The aim of demarcation is to bring clarity, precision, and order to delineate distinct areas or concepts.
In the physical sense, demarcation may involve the use of physical markers, such as fences, walls, or boundaries, to clearly indicate the separation between properties, countries, or regions. For instance, demarcation lines may be drawn to designate the borders between neighboring nations or regions of a country, helping establish territorial limits.
Demarcation can also refer to the establishment of clear distinctions or boundaries between different ideas, concepts, or domains. This applies to various fields and disciplines. For example, in scientific research, demarcation plays a crucial role in delineating what should be considered as scientifically valid and distinguishable from other non-scientific concepts. In legal contexts, demarcation helps to differentiate between legal and illegal activities or the boundaries of legal jurisdictions.
Overall, demarcation is an essential process that promotes clarity, organization, and understanding by explicitly setting boundaries and divisions, whether in physical, conceptual, or abstract contexts. It provides a clear framework for defining and comprehending the limits and distinctiveness of different entities, territories, or ideas.
A setting of limits, determining a boundary.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A line, real or imaginary, that bounds or limits; separation of territory; common expression is line of demarkation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "demarcation" comes from the French word "démarcation", which is derived from the Latin word "dēmarcātiōnem". The Latin word consists of two elements: "dē", which means "from" or "down", and "marcātiōnem", which is the accusative form of "marcātiō" meaning "boundary" or "limit". Ultimately, "dēmarcātiōnem" was formed by adding the prefix "dē" to the Latin word "marcāre", meaning "to mark". The word "demarcation" was later adopted into English in the late 16th century with a similar meaning of marking or setting boundaries.