zebra crossing

USAGE SUMMARY

"zebra crossing" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
A "zebra crossing" is a type of pedestrian crossing indicated by alternating dark and light stripes. Example sentence: "Be careful when you approach the zebra crossing at the intersection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

There's a scene we shot on the zebra crossing at Abbey Road in London.

The Guardian - Film

Data collection occurred at these intersections by placing a video camera at each zebra crossing.

Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour

A little later came a zebra crossing – in fact seven zebras, quiet, unhurried, dainty.

The Guardian

My first, in my teens, ended in a fist fight on a zebra crossing.

The Guardian - Music

Yes, as much as the Japanese family posing for snaps on the zebra crossing outside, Animal Collective are tourists.

The Guardian - Music

The prospect of a whole zebra crossing far away is too much for some high-flying types to think about.

The Guardian

My flat on Fulham Palace Road was underneath a dry cleaner's with a zebra crossing going into Sainsbury's Local.

The Guardian - Music

Turn left and you'll find a zebra crossing that leads to a footpath on the opposite side of the road.

Independent

Crowds gathered to watch the star walk over the zebra crossing 49 years after it was immortalised by the band's 11th studio album.

The Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Currently, zebra crossing-style markings are only permitted on UK roads where Belisha Beacons and zig-zag markings are also in place and can cost around £30,000.

Forbes

A driver passing the nearby copse on the left in daylight would have seen, well ahead, the zebra-crossing stripes of a badger, as I did.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about road safety, use "zebra crossing" to specifically refer to pedestrian crossings marked with broad white stripes, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming "zebra crossing" is universally understood. In American English, "crosswalk" is more common. Tailor your language to your audience for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "zebra crossing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a specific type of pedestrian crossing. Ludwig AI confirms it is a correct phrase in written English. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing locations, incidents, and features of urban environments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "zebra crossing" refers to a pedestrian crossing distinguished by broad white stripes, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is a noun phrase used to describe a safe place for pedestrians to cross the road. As Ludwig examples show, the term is common in News & Media and Science contexts. While grammatically correct and very common, "zebra crossing" usage may vary regionally. When using the term, consider your audience and context to ensure clarity. Alternatives like "pedestrian crossing" or "crosswalk" can be appropriate depending on the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pedestrian crossing

Wider term; includes any designated point for pedestrians to cross a road, not just striped ones.

crosswalk

Common synonym, especially in American English, emphasizing the act of crossing.

marked crossing

Focuses on the presence of markings to indicate a safe crossing point.

designated crossing point

More formal way to indicate an officially recognized area for pedestrians to cross.

striped pedestrian lane

Highlights the striped markings specific to a "zebra crossing".

safe crossing zone

Emphasizes the safety aspect of a designated crossing area.

pedestrian refuge

Highlights that the area provides a safer area than crossing without it.

crossing facility

A general term for any infrastructure designed to aid pedestrian crossing.

formalized road crossing

Formal and less common alternative, highlighting organization.

safe passage area

Focuses on safety during the act of traversing the road.

FAQs

How does a "zebra crossing" ensure pedestrian safety?

A "zebra crossing" is designed to provide a clearly marked area for pedestrians to cross the road. By law, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians on the crossing, enhancing their safety. It's a visual cue for both drivers and pedestrians.

What are the key features of a "zebra crossing"?

The key features include broad white stripes painted parallel to the road, and often Belisha beacons (flashing amber globes on black and white poles) on either side of the road to increase visibility, particularly at night.

Are there alternatives to using a "zebra crossing"?

Alternatives include using "pedestrian crossings" with traffic lights, "pedestrian overpasses", or "underground passages", depending on the road and traffic conditions. These options offer different levels of safety and convenience.

How does traffic law apply to the use of a "zebra crossing"?

Traffic law typically requires drivers to stop or yield to pedestrians who are on a "zebra crossing". The specific rules vary by jurisdiction, but the primary goal is to protect pedestrians crossing the road.