Which term describes a parcel of real estate that identifies it in a way that distinguishes it from other parcels?

The term that best describes a parcel of real estate in a way that distinguishes it from other parcels is "legal description." A legal description is a precise way to identify a specific piece of land, using methods that conform to local, state, or national regulations. Legal descriptions often include details such as the boundaries, dimensions, and sometimes references to monuments or markers, ensuring that the property can be easily identified and uniquely distinguished from surrounding parcels.

In this context, while "land description" could be used to refer to general descriptions of land, it does not carry the same legal weight or specificity as a legal description. Legal descriptions serve crucial functions in real estate transactions, property taxation, and zoning matters, ensuring clarity in property rights and ownership.

Additionally, while government survey methods and maps and plats can assist in the identification and mapping of properties, they do not provide the precise legal stand-alone description that maintains relevance in legal contexts. Thus, "legal description" is the term that most accurately reflects the intended distinction for a parcel of real estate.