1.
safety zone; safe area; refuge
An area designated as safe from danger, such as a disaster evacuation zone or a protected area in a conflict.
2.
pedestrian island; traffic island
A raised or marked area in the middle of a road where pedestrians can safely wait while crossing, or where tram passengers board.
Compound of 安全 (safety) and 地帯 (zone, area). Used both literally for designated safe areas and figuratively for a psychological comfort zone.
Common collocations
- 安全地帯に逃げる: to flee to a safety zone
- 安全地帯から出る: to leave one's comfort zone
- 安全地帯に留まる: to stay in the safe zone
Usage
In traffic law, 安全地帯 is a formal term defined in 道路交通法 (Road Traffic Act). Vehicles must not enter a marked 安全地帯. In recent years, the figurative use as "comfort zone" has become increasingly common, mirroring the English expression.