Boundary
/ˈbaʊndəri/
nounB1
Definition
A boundary is a line or edge that separates one area from another. It can be a physical border, like a fence between two properties, or an invisible limit, like rules that show what behavior is acceptable. Boundaries help define spaces and keep things organized or safe.
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See It in Action
A physical or imaginary line separating two areas
- •The river forms the boundary between the two countries.
- •Please do not cross the boundary of the construction site.
- •The garden has a low fence as its boundary.
A limit that controls behavior or actions
- •It's important to set boundaries in friendships to respect each other.
- •She knows her boundaries and does not take on too much work.
- •Parents teach children about boundaries to keep them safe.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "boundary" like "line" (A1 word), but this line means a limit or border between two places or ideas.
- ✓Picture a fence or a painted line on the ground that shows where one place ends and another begins.
- ✓It feels like the invisible rule you know not to cross, like personal space or a quiet zone.
- ✓Sounds like "BOUND-uh-ree" → imagine a big "BOUND" (like a jump) that stops you from going further.
- ✓Think of a playground where the fence is the boundary keeping children safe inside.
- ✓NOT like "wall" (solid and physical), a boundary can be invisible or physical.
- ✓NOT like "limit" (which can be a number or amount), a boundary is more about space or rules.
- ✓NOT like "border" (usually between countries), a boundary can be smaller, like between rooms or people.
Try Other Words
- •Border: a line between countries or large areas (Use when talking about countries or big regions)
- •Limit: a point or level beyond which something does not or may not extend (Use when talking about rules or amounts rather than physical spaces)
- •Edge: the outer part or line of something (Use when focusing on the outermost part rather than a dividing line)
- •Barrier: something that blocks movement or access (Use when the boundary is a physical object that stops people or things)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "bound" (to tie or limit) + suffix "-ary" (related to)
- •Etymology: From Latin "bounda" meaning a limit or border, through Old French and Middle English
- •Historical development: Originally meant a limit or border of land, later extended to mean any kind of limit or dividing line
- •Modern usage: Used for physical borders, personal limits, and rules that separate or protect
Reflect & Connect
•How do boundaries help people feel safe and respected in different places or relationships?
•Can boundaries sometimes be invisible but still very important? How do you recognize them?
Fill in the blanks
1.The fence marks the boundary ___ the two neighbors' yards, so no one crosses ___.
2.Setting personal boundaries helps people understand ___ behavior is acceptable and ___ is not.
3.Unlike a wall, a boundary can be ___, like a rule or a feeling of space.
4.When countries disagree, they often discuss ___ to decide where one ends and the other begins.
5.Children learn about boundaries to know when they should ___ and when to speak up.
6.If someone crosses your boundary, it can make you feel ___ or uncomfortable.
7.The boundary around the playground keeps children ___ and safe inside.