The term "the county" can be interchangeable with a few different words that all refer to a specific geographic area. "The region" or "the district" can both be used to describe an area encompassing multiple towns and cities, often with distinct cultural or economic characteristics. Similarly, "the shire" refers to a traditional term in the United Kingdom for a county or region, while "the jurisdiction" has legal connotations and refers to the authority of governing bodies in a given area. No matter which word is used, all refer to a specific location with its own unique identity and characteristics.