1.
blind spot; dead angle
An area that cannot be seen from a particular viewpoint, such as a driver's blind spot or an area not covered by a security camera.
死角に注意してください。
Please watch out for blind spots.
ミラーで死角を確認した。
I checked the blind spot using the mirror.
防犯カメラの死角に入らないように設置した。
The security cameras were installed so that there would be no blind spots.
2.
blind spot; oversight; gap
A figurative gap or weakness in a plan, system, or defense that has been overlooked or is difficult to notice.
法律の死角をつく。
To exploit a loophole in the law.
この計画には死角がない。
This plan has no blind spots.
警備の死角を狙って侵入した犯人が逮捕された。
The suspect who broke in by targeting a gap in the security was arrested.
USAGE:
Sense 1 is commonly used in driving and security contexts. Sense 2 extends the meaning metaphorically to any overlooked weakness in a system, plan, or defense. Both senses are frequently encountered in news and everyday conversation.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 死角に入る (to enter a blind spot)
- 死角をつく (to exploit a blind spot)
- 死角がない (to have no blind spots; flawless)
- 死角をなくす (to eliminate blind spots)
NOTE ON HOMOPHONES:
Not to be confused with 四角 (square), 視覚 (vision/eyesight), or 資格 (qualification). The kanji 死角 literally means "dead angle."