English Reference
noun

area

n.
US /ˈɛɹiə/ UK /ˈeəɹiə/ area UK spelling area's, area's

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    a particular part of a town, country, or building.

    a specific geographic region or a distinct part of a larger physical space.

    Simple

    There are several nice parks in this area of the city.

    In context

    The local government is investing heavily in this industrial area to attract new technology companies and create sustainable jobs.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate Academic

    a particular subject or part of a situation.

    a specific field of activity, study, or interest; a conceptual scope.

    Simple

    Finance is an area where she has a lot of experience.

    In context

    The research paper identifies several areas where further investigation is required to understand the long-term effects of the policy.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Academic Math

    the size of a flat surface, measured in square units like square meters.

    the two-dimensional extent of a surface, calculated as a product of dimensions and expressed in square units.

    Simple

    To find the area of the room, multiply the length by the width.

    In context

    The architect calculated the total floor area to ensure the building design complied with local density regulations.

  4. 04 A2 Elementary

    a space used for a specific purpose, like a play area or parking area.

    a physical space designated for a specific function or an unused extent of surface.

    Simple

    The hotel has a small play area for children near the pool.

    In context

    The designated smoking area was moved further away from the main entrance to improve air quality for arriving guests.

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate British English Sport

    the rectangular box in front of the goal in football.

    the penalty area in association football where the goalkeeper may handle the ball.

    Simple

    The striker was fouled inside the area, so the referee gave a penalty.

    In context

    The defender's mistimed tackle inside the area resulted in a crucial penalty during the final minutes of the match.

    penalty boxeighteen yard box
  6. 06 C2 Proficiency British EnglishFormal Architecture

    a small sunken space in front of a house that leads to the basement.

    a sunken courtyard or open space providing light and access to the basement of a building.

    Simple

    She kept her bicycle in the area below the front steps.

    In context

    The traditional London townhouse featured a narrow area protected by wrought-iron railings, allowing natural light into the lower ground floor.

    Usage

    Often used in the context of terraced housing or townhouses.

    areaway
  7. 07 C1 Advanced InformalSlang

    a polite or indirect way to talk about someone's private parts.

    a euphemistic reference to the pelvic region or genitalia.

    Simple

    He felt a sharp pain in his groin area after lifting the heavy box.

    In context

    The athlete suffered a strain in the pelvic area, forcing him to withdraw from the upcoming competition.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a common euphemism in medical or casual contexts to avoid using anatomical terms.

Usage area affected · area along · area burned


Learned borrowing from Latin ārea.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated