razdoblja

Razdoblja is the plural form of razdoblje, a term used in Croatian, Slovenian, and other South Slavic languages to denote a clearly defined interval of time characterized by specific features, events, or developments. The concept is used across disciplines to structure timelines and understand change.

Etymology: the word combines raz- meaning apart, separated, with doba meaning age or era, reflecting the idea of a distinguishable segment within a broader timeline.

Applications: In history and archaeology, razdoblja mark phases of cultures or civilizations, such as ancient times, the medieval period, or the modern era. In geology and earth sciences, razdoblje is often treated as a translation of “period” on the geologic time scale, though exact usage varies by language and tradition. In life sciences and psychology, razdoblja can refer to stages of development or life-cycle phases (infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood). In economics or climatology, razdoblja describe phases of cycles or trends, such as periods of growth or decline.

Usage notes: The boundaries of a razdoblje are defined by criteria that may differ between fields, sources, and cultures. The term functions as a neutral descriptor of a time span rather than a fixed, universally standardized unit. See also: period, era, chronology.