belt · zone

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 帯 denotes a band or zone; its readings include kun-reading おび and on-reading たい.
• Basic usage: 帯(おび) means a sash or band, while 地帯(ちたい) means a zone or area.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• A band around something and an area
  • 帯 is used for a kimono sash and for a paper band around a box. 紙の帯 means a band made of paper.
  • 低い地帯 means a low-lying area. 地帯 identifies an area with a particular feature, such as low ground along a river or a concentration of factories.