boundaries
BOWN-druh-ze
/ˈbaʊndriz/
Limits or rules that a person creates to identify reasonable, safe, and permissible ways for others to behave towards them.
In a work context, boundaries are specifically about the line between professional obligations and personal life.
The story behind the word. The word 'boundary' comes from the Medieval Latin 'bodina,' which referred to a border line. Historically, it was used to describe the physical edges of a piece of land. In the 20th century, psychologists began using it metaphorically to describe the emotional and mental 'fences' we build to protect our time and energy.
Word relationships
- limits: Limits are often imposed by others, while boundaries are often self-defined.
- margins: Margins refer more to the space at the edge, while boundaries are the lines themselves.
- permissiveness: Permissiveness implies a lack of any rules or limits.
Commonly confused with
- barriers: Barriers are meant to block entry entirely; boundaries are meant to define how entry occurs.
Word family
- bound (verb): to form the boundary of.
Collocations
- set boundaries
- establish boundaries
- clear boundaries
- healthy boundaries
Idioms & expressions
- overstep the boundaries
- push the boundaries
Example sentences
- "Setting clear boundaries is essential when your home is also your office." Professional advice on remote work.
- "Healthy boundaries are the foundation of any long-term partnership." A discussion on interpersonal relationships.
Memory hook
Think of 'Boundaries' as 'Bound-Areas'—the areas you are bound to protect from outside intrusion. Boundaries are the fences of your focus.
When not to use
Do not use when referring to physical borders between countries unless the context is literal geography.
Fun facts
- The concept of 'personal boundaries' didn't enter popular psychology until the 1980s.
Related words
Explore more words
permissive, border, etiquette, latitude, transgress, safeguard
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