What does the term "eminent domain" mean?

The term "eminent domain" refers specifically to the government's power to take private property for public use, provided that compensation is given to the property owner. This legal principle allows governments to acquire land for projects that serve the public good, such as building roads, schools, or other infrastructure. The requirement of compensation ensures that property owners are fairly reimbursed for their loss, balancing the interests of individual property rights with the needs of the community.

The other options do not accurately reflect the concept of eminent domain. The right of private individuals to buy land relates to property transactions, not the government's authority to seize property. Selling land through public auction describes a method of property sale rather than government acquisition. The regulation of property boundaries pertains to zoning laws and property lines, which are distinct from the concept of taking property for public use. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the specific governmental action associated with eminent domain.