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outline

noun

/ˈaʊtˌlaɪn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of outline

A concise and organized summary or plan that provides a structure or framework for a larger body of work or concept.
"The essay began with a clear and concise outline of the main arguments."

Detailed meaning of outline

It represents a skeletal framework that outlines the main points, ideas, or components of something, serving as a roadmap or guide. An outline typically consists of a hierarchical arrangement of headings, subheadings, or bullet points that represent the logical flow or sequence of information or ideas. It is commonly used in various contexts such as academic writing, presentations, speeches, or project planning. An outline helps to clarify and organize thoughts, ensuring coherence and logical progression in the development of a piece of work. It serves as a foundation upon which the detailed content or elaboration can be built. The purpose of an outline is to provide a structured overview, allowing the creator or reader to grasp the main ideas or components quickly and navigate through the subject matter more efficiently.

Example sentences containing outline

1. He provided a detailed outline of the presentation to the team.
2. The teacher asked the students to submit an outline before writing their research papers.
3. The architect sketched an outline of the building design on a whiteboard.
4. She followed the outline to structure her speech at the conference.
5. The book included a chapter outline at the beginning to give readers an overview of the content.
6. He drew an outline of the figure before filling it with colors.

History and etymology of outline

The noun 'outline' has its origins in the Middle English word 'outlen,' which evolved from the earlier Old English term 'utlendian.' This word can be broken down into two components: 'ut,' meaning 'out,' and 'lendian,' meaning 'to make a boundary or draw a line.' The etymology of 'outline' thus encapsulates the concept of drawing a boundary or delineating the outer edges of something, which aligns with its modern usage as a concise and organized summary or plan that provides a structure or framework for a larger body of work or concept. In essence, an outline serves as the figurative lines that define and structure a more comprehensive idea or project.

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Further usage examples of outline

1. The outline of the mountain range was visible against the setting sun.
2. The project manager created an outline to define the tasks and timelines for the project.
3. The detective used the outline of the crime scene to analyze the sequence of events.
4. The student highlighted the main points in the lecture outline to study for the exam.
5. The artist used a pencil to sketch the outline of the portrait before adding details.
6. She prepared a detailed outline for her research paper.
7. The architect presented the building's outline to the client.
8. Before writing, he sketched an outline of the novel's plot.
9. The teacher provided an outline for the upcoming project.
10. An outline can help organize your thoughts before speaking.
11. The presentation lacked a clear outline, confusing the audience.
12. He followed the outline to create an effective business plan.
13. The outline highlighted the main points of the lecture.
14. She used an outline to structure her presentation.
15. The project manager created a comprehensive project outline.
16. The outline served as a roadmap for the book's chapters.
17. The outline guided her through the complex task.
18. A well-structured outline simplifies essay writing.
19. The outline emphasized the project's key milestones.
20. He provided a rough outline for the marketing campaign.
21. The meeting agenda was a concise outline of topics.
22. The outline clarified the steps for the experiment.
23. An outline helps you stay organized during a speech.
24. The outline highlighted the main goals of the project.
25. The workshop began with an outline of the day's agenda.