Schaallijn

Schaallijn is a Dutch term that translates to “scale line.” In Dutch technical language, schaallijn refers to a line or graphic element on a map, drawing, or diagram that indicates the scale of the representation. The schaallijn enables viewers to estimate real-world distances by relating drawing units to actual measurements.

The exact form of a schaallijn varies by field. In cartography and geographic information tools, it often appears as a scale bar with labeled divisions (for example 0, 100 m, 200 m) or as a linear set of marks along the margin that shows the ratio of drawing units to meters or other units. In engineering drawings and architectural plans, a schaallijn may appear as a linear scale with a numeric ratio (such as 1:100) indicated nearby, sometimes combined with a graphical scale bar.

The term is relatively specialized and may be used alongside related Dutch terms such as schaalverdeling, schaalbalk, or simply kaart- of tekeningsschaal. Usage and preferred terminology can vary by country, industry, and language. In English-language contexts, the equivalent concept is usually called a scale bar or a graphical scale.

See also: schaalverdeling, schaalbalk, kaartlezen, technische tekening, cartografie.