A metropolitanate can be described synonymously as an archdiocese, a bishopric, or a diocese. It may also be referred to as a metropolitan church, region or province. Other terms that convey a similar meaning include metropolitan archbishopric or simply, a metropolitan district. In Catholic and Orthodox traditions, these terms refer to the geographic region of a bishop's jurisdiction, which may encompass multiple parishes or churches. Sometimes, the word metropolitanate is used to describe a group of bishops within a religious community who play a key role in decision-making processes and policy formation. Overall, the synonyms for metropolitanate convey the essence of a highly regarded and influential religious institution.