English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Buffer zone
Meaning
"Buffer zone" is an idiom that refers to a geographical area or time period between two opposing groups or forces. It can also refer to a transitional phase, place, or concept that helps individuals or societies adjust to change. The idiom has a neutral and non-judgmental connotation, often used to describe a situation where there is potential conflict or tension.
Usage
- "We need a buffer zone between our two neighboring countries to avoid any conflicts or misunderstandings."
- "The company decided to implement a buffer zone for employees during the pandemic to ensure their safety and well-being."
- "Before starting a new project, we need to go through a buffer zone where we can brainstorm ideas and gather feedback from stakeholders."
- "After the recent political turmoil in our country, there is a growing demand for a buffer zone between different ethnic groups to promote harmony and peace."
- "The school implemented a buffer zone for students to help them adjust to the new online learning platform during the pandemic."
Roots and History
The idiom "buffer zone" has its roots in military strategy, where a buffer zone was an area of land or sea that separated two enemy forces. The purpose was to prevent any direct confrontation between the two sides and to delay hostilities. Over time, the idiom has been used metaphorically to describe other situations where a neutral space or period was needed. In contemporary language, the idiom is often used in social, political, and economic contexts, and can refer to anything from geographical areas to transitional periods.
Synonyms in English
- Transition period
- Period of adjustment
- Neutral space
- Mediation
- Diplomatic solution
Synonyms in other languages
- 緩和期間 (Japanese) - Refers to a gradual change or transition between two phases, often used in business contexts.
- 间隙 (Chinese) - Refers to the gap between two opposing forces or groups, often used in political or social contexts.
- 공간/시간적인 위치 (German) - Refers to a neutral position or place that avoids direct confrontation, often used in conflict resolution and diplomacy.
- 공간의 중심 (Swedish) - Refers to the neutral center of a space or area, often used in urban planning and architecture.
- 공간이 있어야한다 (Korean) - Refers to the need for a neutral space or time period to prevent conflicts or misunderstandings, often used in interpersonal relationships.