The purpose of the article is to deepen the theoretical and substantiation of methodological provisions for defining the concept of "rural areas". Research methods. It has been used general and unique methods, including theoretical generalization and dialectical methods of cognition of processes and phenomena (specifying the categorical-conceptual apparatus), monographic (analysis of the evolution of scientific achievements to define and interpret the category of "rural areas"), abstract-logical formulation of conclusions), comparative analysis (identified basic approaches to the interpretation of economic concepts from the administrative, resource, systemic, territorial point of view), empirical (for a comprehensive assessment of definitions). Research results. The relevance of theoretical research of rural areas is substantiated. The approaches of different authors to the interpretation of the economic category "rural areas", transformations in economic research, identification of patterns and socio-economic nature of the origin of approaches to their performance, and summarize the research results to determine this definition. Based on the analysis, several scientific and methodological approaches are singled out, particularly territorial, spatial, structural, systemic and multicriteria. Based on these definitions, we formulated the author's definition. Scientific novelty. Theoretical provisions on the definition of "rural area" have been further developed. The author's view of the essence of this concept is formulated, and its components are singled out, according to which their spatial and economic definition can be given. Practical significance. Proposals have been made to interpret the category "rural area". The results of the study can be taken into account in determining the priority areas and prospects for the development of individual regions and will contribute to the development of new effective strategies and programs to ensure the economic potential of the rural regions to develop their infrastructure and create appropriate conditions for rural self-realization. Tabl.: 2. Refs.: 30.
