What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delineated
Example
The architect delineated the plans for the new building. [delineated: verb]
Example
The report provided a delineated analysis of the company's financial performance. [delineated: adjective]
outline
Example
Can you give me an outline of your presentation? [outline: noun]
Example
She outlined the main points of her argument in the introduction. [outlined: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outline is more commonly used than delineated in everyday language. Outline is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while delineated is less common and is more likely to be used in academic or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delineated and outline?
Delineated has a more formal and technical connotation than outline, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.