What does subcontinent mean?

"Subcontinent" is a term used to describe a large landmass that is geographically distinct from a larger continent, but is still considered part of that continent. It implies a significant degree of geographical and cultural separation.

Here's a breakdown:

* Large Landmass: A subcontinent is significantly smaller than a continent, but still large enough to be considered a major landmass.

* Geographically Distinct: It has unique physical features like mountains, rivers, or climate that set it apart from the rest of the continent.

* Cultural Separation: Often, a subcontinent has its own distinct cultures, languages, and historical experiences.

Examples:

* The Indian Subcontinent: This is a well-known example, consisting of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Maldives. It's separated from the rest of Asia by the Himalayan mountain range and has unique cultural traditions.

* The Balkan Subcontinent: This term is sometimes used to describe the southeastern part of Europe, including countries like Greece, Albania, Bulgaria, and Serbia. It's marked by distinctive cultures, languages, and history.

Note: The use of the term "subcontinent" can be a bit controversial, as it can sometimes be seen as implying a sense of inferiority or separation. However, it is still a widely used term in geographical and historical contexts.