buffer zone

USAGE SUMMARY

"buffer zone" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is often used to refer to an area between two separate entities (such as countries, states, or sections of a city) to act as a physical or metaphorical barrier between them. For example, "The two countries agreed to establish a 20-mile buffer zone along their shared border as a means of preventing further conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Identify a buffer zone.

The Guardian

The buffer zone is impenetrable.

The Guardian

A buffer zone was clearly needed.

The Economist

The court otherwise upheld buffer zone provisions.

The New York Times

We are acting in this buffer zone already.

The New York Times

But its buffer zone is a generous £250.

The Guardian - Money

"A buffer zone is not a ban," he said.

The New York Times

Writer visits the Nicosia sector of the UN buffer zone.

The New Yorker

Balkan governments say they will not be Europe's buffer zone.

The Guardian

The buffer zone would also protect Israel's capital in Jerusalem.

The New York Times

Requests for a security buffer zone raised tempers here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In urban planning contexts, "buffer zone" can refer to areas separating different land uses; ensure you specify the purpose and characteristics of the zone.

Common error

Avoid using "buffer zone" loosely to describe any general space or gap. It should specifically refer to a deliberate area created for separation, protection, or transition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "buffer zone" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it typically denotes a neutral area between opposing forces or a transitional area between different land uses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "buffer zone" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to a neutral area separating opposing forces or a transitional space between different land uses. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media contexts. To ensure clarity, it's important to use "buffer zone" specifically when describing a deliberate area created for separation, protection, or transition and avoid overly broad applications. Related terms include "demilitarized zone", "neutral territory", and "transition area".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demilitarized zone

Specifically highlights an area where military presence is prohibited, a common type of buffer.

protective perimeter

Focuses on the defensive aspect of a buffer, emphasizing the area's role in providing security.

cordon sanitaire

Describes a barrier to prevent the spread of something, often disease or ideological influence.

security perimeter

Similar to 'protective perimeter' but stresses the function of security provision.

neutral territory

Emphasizes the impartiality and lack of allegiance within the zone.

exclusion zone

Focuses on the act of keeping something or someone out of a specific area.

safety corridor

Implies a protected pathway or area for safe passage.

no man's land

Evokes the image of a dangerous, unclaimed area between opposing forces.

transition area

Highlights the role of the zone as a space for change or movement between two states.

interface area

Highlights the zone as a point of interaction or connection between different entities.

FAQs

How is "buffer zone" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "buffer zone" commonly describes a neutral area separating hostile forces, or a transitional area between different land uses. For example: "The UN established a "buffer zone" between the two countries."

What are some alternative phrases for "buffer zone"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "demilitarized zone", "neutral territory", or "transition area" as alternatives to "buffer zone".

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "buffer zone"?

The term "buffer zone" is appropriate in contexts relating to military strategy, urban planning, environmental conservation, and even interpersonal relationships when describing boundaries or separations.

What is the difference between a "buffer zone" and an "exclusion zone"?

While both terms refer to designated areas, a "buffer zone" typically aims to separate or mitigate conflict or differences, while an "exclusion zone" focuses on preventing access or entry to a specific area.