# Bounded Context: The Core Concept
> [!Note]
> A **Bounded Context** establishes a clear semantic boundary where each element has a unique and consistent meaning, is implemented as a distinct model, and ideally corresponds to a single, coherent business subdomain.
A **Bounded Context** explicitly defines the limits within which terms and concepts maintain a unified, coherent meaning. This **semantic boundary** prevents ambiguity and ensures clarity, enabling precise communication and robust modeling.
Within each bounded context, a single, consistent model should be implemented, typically encapsulated in separate codebases and data schemas. This **distinct model** simplifies maintenance, reduces unintended coupling, and maintains integrity across changes.
Ideally, every bounded context aligns directly with a clearly defined **business subdomain**. This alignment ensures the software structure naturally mirrors business structure, facilitating better understanding and more efficient evolution of the system as the business evolves.
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## References
- Vernon, V. (2016). _Domain-driven design distilled_. Addison-Wesley Professional.
- Vernon, V. (2013). _Implementing domain-driven design_. Addison-Wesley Professional.
- Khononov, V. (2021). _Learning domain-driven design: Aligning software architecture and business strategy_. O’Reilly Media.
- Alammar, J., & Grootendorst, M. (2024). _Hands-on large language models: Language understanding and generation_. O’Reilly Media.
- Evans, E. (2003). _Domain-driven design: Tackling complexity in the heart of software_. Addison-Wesley Professional.
- Millett, S., & Tune, N. (2015). _Patterns, principles, and practices of domain-driven design._ Wrox.