B2noun1K

Zone

UK /["/zəʊn/"]/US /["/zəʊn/"]/

Definition

an area or a region with a particular feature or use

In simple words: An area or space that is different from others.

Examples

  • After the earthquake, the city was divided into several danger zones.
  • He is entering a creative zone where his ideas flow easily.
  • The school is located in a quiet zone away from busy roads.
  • When I exercise, I try to reach the optimal heart rate zone.
  • They set up a no-parking zone outside the festival area.
  • During the meeting, we discussed the importance of staying in the learning zone to grow.
  • The new traffic rules apply within the school zone, ensuring children's safety.
  • The marathon runners are in the final zone of the race, pushing their limits.
  • She often retreats to her comfort zone, where she feels safe and relaxed.

Usage notes

Use 'zone' when talking about specific areas like 'time zone' or 'safety zone'. It’s not used in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of the 'zone defense' in basketball, where players guard specific areas.

Collocations

  • narrow
  • wide
  • marginal
  • control
  • patrol
  • create
  • in a/​the zone
  • within a/​the zone
  • into a/​the zone
  • narrow
  • wide
  • marginal
  • control
  • patrol
  • create
  • in a/​the zone
  • within a/​the zone
  • into a/​the zone

Synonyms

  • area
  • region
  • district
  • sector
  • locale

Antonyms

  • non-zone
  • unregulated area
  • free space

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'zone' as a verb; remember it’s primarily a noun.
  • Using 'zone' too broadly; it’s best for specific contexts.
  • Confusing 'zone' with similar terms like 'area' without considering their differences.