In English, some words that have similar meanings can often be confused due to their specific usages. Two such words are “conterminous” and “contiguous.” Both terms relate to boundaries and adjacency but are used in different contexts. This lesson will define each word and provide examples to clarify their correct usage.
Conterminous
Definition:
The word “conterminous” means contained within one boundary. It describes areas that share the same boundaries or are encompassed within a single boundary.
Examples of Use:
The conterminous United States excludes two states: Alaska and Hawaii.
The region defined by the river’s basin is conterminous with the area’s ecological zone.
The administrative district is conterminous with the historical county.
Contiguous
Definition:
The word “contiguous” means sharing a boundary or touching. It describes areas that are adjacent to each other and have a common border.
Examples of Use:
The suburb of Oak Park is contiguous with Chicago.
The contiguous rooms can be combined into a single large hall.
The two properties are contiguous, making it easy to expand the garden.
While “conterminous” and “contiguous” both deal with boundaries and adjacency, “conterminous” refers to areas contained within one boundary, sharing the same boundaries, or encompassed within a single boundary, whereas “contiguous” refers to areas that are adjacent to each other and share a common border. Understanding these distinctions will help you use these words accurately and effectively in your writing and speech.
