Translation guide
A neutral area separating two things, often used in geopolitics, ecology, or figuratively.
A neutral area between two countries or forces to prevent conflict.
Standard term for a buffer zone in international relations or military contexts.
その国は二大国間の緩衝地帯として機能している。
That country functions as a buffer zone between the two major powers.
Neutral zone, often implying a demilitarized or agreed-upon neutral area.
国境沿いに中立地帯が設けられた。
A neutral zone was established along the border.
A protected area surrounding a core habitat to reduce human impact.
Same term as geopolitical, widely used in conservation contexts.
国立公園の周囲には緩衝地帯が設定されている。
A buffer zone is established around the national park.
Loanword from English, used in technical or international conservation documents.
この地域は生物圏保護区のバッファーゾーンに指定された。
This area was designated as a buffer zone of the biosphere reserve.
A metaphorical space or time that provides separation or protection.
Literally 'cushioning material', used figuratively for something that softens impact or provides a buffer.
彼の存在が二人の間の緩衝材になっている。
His presence acts as a buffer between the two of them.
From 'cushion', used metaphorically for a buffer in relationships or schedules.
Means 'leeway' or 'margin', can be used for a time buffer.
A strip of land separating different land uses, like a greenbelt or noise barrier.
Specifically a green buffer zone, such as a belt of trees between a highway and residential area.
高速道路沿いに緩衝緑地が整備された。
A buffer green zone was developed along the expressway.
Also used in urban planning contexts, especially in international or technical documents.
工業地域と住宅地の間にバッファーゾーンを設ける必要がある。
It is necessary to establish a buffer zone between the industrial area and the residential area.
緩衝地帯 (buffer zone) is a general term for any area that separates conflicting parties or uses. 中立地帯 (neutral zone) specifically implies an area where military activity is prohibited by agreement. In ecology, only 緩衝地帯 is used.
緩衝地帯は武力衝突を防ぐために設けられる。
A buffer zone is established to prevent armed conflict.
中立地帯ではいかなる軍事活動も禁止されている。
Any military activity is prohibited in the neutral zone.
The loanword バッファーゾーン is understood in technical fields like ecology and urban planning, but 緩衝地帯 is more common in general news and conversation. For figurative uses, avoid バッファーゾーン and use 緩衝材 or クッション instead.
会議の間にクッションを置いてスケジュールを組んだ。
I scheduled the meetings with a buffer in between.
Let's allow a 30-minute buffer before departure.