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area

US //ˈɛɹiə// UK //ˈeəɹiə// area
  1. 1 geographic region (n.)
    A1 Beginner

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The local government is investing heavily in this industrial area to attract new technology companies and create sustainable jobs.
  2. 2 subject or field (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Academic

    a particular subject or part of a situation.

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The research paper identifies several areas where further investigation is required to understand the long-term effects of the policy.
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  1. 3 mathematical measurement (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    The architect calculated the total floor area to ensure the building design complied with local density regulations.
  2. 4 empty space (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    The designated smoking area was moved further away from the main entrance to improve air quality for arriving guests.
  3. 5 football penalty box (n.)
    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.

    Example

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

    Example

    The defender's mistimed tackle inside the area resulted in a crucial penalty during the final minutes of the match.
  4. 6 basement space (n.)
    C2 Proficiency British English Formal 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.

    Example

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

    Example

    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.
  5. 7 genitals (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Slang

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

    a euphemistic reference to the pelvic region or genitalia.

    Example

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

    Example

    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.
Origin

Learned borrowing from Latin ārea.

Idioms1 entry

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