Word
zoning
Phoneticszon·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈzoʊnɪŋ/
UK/zˈəʊnɪŋ/
Definitions
01land use regulation
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Law Technical
n. the official rules that control how land and buildings in a specific area can be used.
n. the legal framework used by local governments to regulate the use of land and the types of structures permitted in specific districts.
“The city changed the zoning of the old factory area so that new apartments could be built there.”
“The developer's proposal was rejected because it violated local zoning ordinances regarding the maximum height of residential structures in the historic district.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun like 'laws', 'rules', or 'ordinances'.
Teaching tip
This is a key term in urban planning and real estate; it is more common in American English contexts than 'planning permission' in British English.
Synonyms
02dividing into zones
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal
n. the act of dividing an area into different parts or zones, such as for travel prices or delivery.
n. the systematic division of an area into functional zones for administrative, logistical, or pricing purposes.
“The transport company introduced new zoning to make ticket prices fairer for people living in the suburbs.”
“The logistics firm revised its delivery zoning to account for the increased fuel costs associated with rural distribution routes.”
Usage
Can be used as a gerund or a verbal noun.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Chicago offers zoning incentives to encourage developers to build green roofs, like this one on City Hall.” “A space-based system would avoid competing for local land and water resources, and it would not generate neighborhood noise or require local zoning approval in the same way.” Related words
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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