The word "delineate" means to describe, depict, or portray something in a clear and detailed manner. To understand what a word means, you can follow these steps:
1. Check the dictionary: Look up the word in a reliable dictionary. There are many online dictionaries available that provide definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences. Reading through these can give you a basic understanding of the word.
2. Analyze the context: Consider the sentence or passage in which the word is used. Look for clues that can help you infer the meaning. Pay attention to the words that surround it, the overall tone of the writing, and the subject matter being discussed. These context clues can provide additional insight.
3. Break down the word: Sometimes, understanding the root of a word can help you grasp its meaning. In the case of "delineate," the root word is "line." The prefix "de-" means to reverse the action, so it suggests the idea of "undoing" or "taking away." Combining these elements, you can infer that "delineate" means to "draw lines that undo or separate." In a figurative sense, it means to describe or illustrate something in a clear and distinct way.
By following these steps, you can build your understanding of a word and its meaning.