province
In a geographical sense, it denotes a secondary level of governance. It carries a feeling of being subordinate to a central capital or national government. While 'state' often implies more autonomy (as in the US), 'province' often suggests a division of a larger, unified whole.
When used metaphorically for knowledge or responsibility, it describes a boundary of expertise. It implies a professional 'turf' or a specialized domain where one person or department has the authority and skill to act, while others do not.
Countable when referring to a physical territory on a map, like a state or region ('The country is divided into ten provinces'). Uncountable when describing a person's sphere of expertise or duty ('That matter falls within the province of the law').
💬Casual Conversation
Jessica, is the budget for the moon retreat my province or yours?
Jessica, is the budget for the moon retreat my province or yours?
It's definitely mine and I'm totally swamped trying to nail it down.
It's definitely mine and I'm totally swamped trying to nail it down.
Meanings
An administrative division of a country or empire.
The province of British Columbia is located on Canada's west coast.
A particular area of knowledge, interest, or responsibility.
Detailed financial forecasting is more the province of the accounting department than the marketing team.