Bounded Context
ELI5 — The Vibe Check
A bounded context is a boundary where a particular model and language applies. 'Customer' means one thing in Sales and something different in Shipping. Instead of fighting over one definition, each team gets their own — clearly separated.
Real Talk
A central DDD concept defining the boundary within which a particular domain model is consistent and applicable. Different bounded contexts can have different models for the same real-world concept (e.g., 'Product' in Catalog vs. Inventory). Communication between contexts uses explicit translation (anti-corruption layers, published languages).
When You'll Hear This
"Each microservice maps to a bounded context — that's the DDD sweet spot." / "'Customer' in the billing context has payment info; in the support context, it has ticket history. Different bounded contexts, different models."
Related Terms
Anti-Corruption Layer
An anti-corruption layer is a translator between two systems that speak different languages.
Context Mapping
Context mapping is drawing the diplomatic map of your system — which bounded contexts exist, how they relate, and who's in charge.
Domain-Driven Design (DDD)
DDD says your code should speak the same language as the business.
Ubiquitous Language
Ubiquitous language means developers and business people use the EXACT SAME words for the same things.