precinct
Meaning: A designated area within a town or city, often pedestrianised or set aside for a particular purpose; also the enclosed grounds surrounding a cathedral or other important building.
In British English, 'precinct' most commonly refers to a pedestrianised shopping area (a 'shopping precinct'), whereas in American English it primarily denotes a police district. The word also describes the grounds of a cathedral or university — 'within the precincts of the cathedral'. The plural 'precincts' can mean the area surrounding a particular place. British usage tends to be architectural or planning-related.
Examples
- The shopping precinct in the town centre has been pedestrianised to create a more pleasant environment for shoppers. 镇中心的购物区已被步行化,为购物者创造了更宜人的环境。El centro comercial peatonal del centro de la ciudad ha sido peatonalizado para crear un ambiente más agradable para los compradores.町の中心部のショッピングプレシンクトは歩行者専用区域となり、買い物客にとってより快適な環境が生まれました。도심의 쇼핑 구역은 보행자 전용으로 전환되어 쇼핑객들에게 더 쾌적한 환경을 제공하고 있습니다.
- Only authorised vehicles are permitted within the precincts of the cathedral. 只有获授权的车辆才允许进入大教堂的范围内。Solo los vehículos autorizados tienen acceso al recinto de la catedral.大聖堂の構内には許可された車両のみが入ることが許されています。대성당 경내에는 허가된 차량만 진입이 허용됩니다.
- The council plans to modernise the ageing precinct with new paving, seating, and planting. 市议会计划通过新的路面铺装、座椅和绿化来翻新这个老旧的购物区。El ayuntamiento prevé modernizar el anticuado centro comercial con nuevos pavimentos, asientos y zonas ajardinadas.議会は、新しい舗装、座席、植栽を施して老朽化したプレシンクトを近代化する計画です。시의회는 새로운 포장, 좌석, 조경을 설치하여 노후된 상가 구역을 현대화할 계획입니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: professional, media
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Medieval Latin praecinctum (an enclosure), from Latin praecingere (to gird about, encircle), combining prae- (before, around) and cingere (to gird, surround). Entered English in the 15th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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