The English we speak: comfort zone

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/language/theenglishwespeak/2012/04/120403_tews_65_comfort_zone.shtml

Comfort zone

Listen

Helen prepared a comfortable sitting area after Rob told her that they were going to make a programme about comfort zones. Does Rob really want a comfy sofa or is it just another new phrase for Helen?

Do comfort zones have anything to do with comfy sofas?

The script for this programme

Rob: (ON PHONE) OK Helen, sounds interesting…I’ll be right over. Bye! Helen has something interesting to show me, so I’m off to see it now.

(KNOCK ON DOOR)

Rob: Err, hi Helen.

Helen: Hello Rob. Welcome to my comfort zone.

Rob: Your what?

Helen: My comfort zone. I’ve made a very comfortable area for relaxing in. Don’t you think it’s relaxing Rob? 

Rob: Well yes. Nice cushions, a very cosy sofa and soft lighting – but Helen, why did you want to show me this relaxing and comfortable room – are you up to something?

Helen: No! You said we were doing a programme about comfort zones – so I decided to make one.

Rob: I see. Well we could describe this room as our comfort zone but usually the term refers to how someone feels.

Helen: Oh! So it’s not just a place, but a state of mind.

Rob: Yes. If someone is in their comfort zone, they feel secure and comfortable, they might even feel in control. Maybe these examples will help to explain more…

• John isn’t going for the promotion - he wants to stay in his comfort zone and doesn’t want the extra stress.

• Jane stays in her comfort zone when booking her holiday and will never travel overseas.

Rob: So those examples describe people who are happy doing something they’ve always done. They feel safe and secure.

Helen: It sounds like a nice place to be.

Rob: It is but it can also imply you won’t take risks and move out of your comfort zone…

Helen: …into your un-comfort zone you mean or your non-comfort zone?

Rob: Exactly. Listen to these examples…

• Sally is dressing outside her usual comfort zone; have you seen the dress she’s wearing tonight?!

• Bob’s working outside his comfort zone by agreeing to run the accounts department.

Rob: A comfort zone can also describe the ideal temperature of a room. It’s just the right conditions to feel comfortable in – not too hot, not too cold.

Helen: Well Rob, I think we’re in just the right comfort zone now.

Rob: We are but come on, let’s step outside and get some fresh air.

Helen: Sorry Rob, I’m staying in my comfort zone. Mmm, it’s so cosy and I feel so secure here and anyway, it might be raining out there.

Rob: You don’t take any chances Helen! Oh well, see you later. Bye.

Helen: Bye! Oh this sofa is so comfortable, mmm...