1. The part of a country or continent that is on the mainland, as opposed to islands or overseas territories
The continental area of France is smaller than its total territory including overseas regions.
A área continental da França é menor que seu território total, incluindo regiões ultramarinas.
2. In geology and geography, the landmass that forms the main body of a continent
Most of the population lives in the continental area rather than on the islands.
A maioria da população vive na área continental e não nas ilhas.
3. The shelf or platform of land that extends from a continent into the ocean (continental shelf)
The continental area offshore contains valuable mineral deposits.
A área continental na costa contém depósitos minerais valiosos.