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Chart vs Map vs Graph

Chart, map, graph are comparable as nouns meaning a graphic and explanatory representation by means of lines, dots, colors, and symbols of something incapable of verbal or pictorial representation (because too large, too detailed, or too abstract) and as verbs meaning to make such a representation of something.

Chart is the most inclusive of these terms; it implies the aim of making clear to the mind through the eye by graphic projection of data something (as solutions of an equation, points on the face of the earth, or values of a variable at specified times and places) that cannot be viewed directly.

Chart often specifically denotes a map designed as an aid to air or water navigation by stressing features and hazards of the area depicted.

Map usually implies a representation of the earth’s surface or of a part of it that shows directly according to some given scale or projection the relative position and size of cultural features (as streets, buildings, cities, towns, villages, counties, states, provinces, or countries) as well as the shape and proportionate extent of natural features (as bodies of water, mountain ranges, and coasts).

It may also be used in reference to a representation of the celestial sphere or of a particular heavenly body.

Graph applies specifically to a chart or diagram in which two variable factors (for example, the prices of a commodity and the times at which these varying prices were asked) are so represented as to indicate their interrelationship.

The usual method of preparing a graph is to locate by means of coordinates a series of points and often to join them with a curve or a series of straight lines.