twilight zone
[/ˈtwɪlaɪt zoʊn/]
nounpl: twilight zones
zona crepuscular; zona indefinida; zona cinzenta
1. A state or area of ambiguity, uncertainty, or moral ambivalence where normal rules do not clearly apply
The legality of that business practice exists in a twilight zone between what is permitted and what is forbidden.
A legalidade dessa prática comercial existe em uma zona cinzenta entre o que é permitido e o que é proibido.
2. A period of fading light between daylight and complete darkness; dusk or dawn
The birds are most active during the twilight zone of early evening.
Os pássaros são mais ativos durante a zona crepuscular do início da noite.
3. A strange, surreal, or eerie situation that resembles something out of fantasy or science fiction
After the accident, he lived in a twilight zone of confusion and fragmented memories.
Após o acidente, ele viveu em uma zona de confusão e memórias fragmentadas.
This phrase gained cultural prominence in the United States through the famous 1959 television series 'The Twilight Zone,' which explored strange, mysterious, and supernatural scenarios. In contemporary usage, both in English and Portuguese, it has become a common metaphor for legal, ethical, or situational ambiguity. In Brazil, 'zona cinzenta' has become the standard equivalent in business, legal, and ethical discussions, particularly when discussing regulatory gray areas or morally ambiguous situations.
NYC Slang
gray area (equivalent usage in NYC vernacular)
Related Idioms & Phrases
in the twilight zone - in a state of confusion or uncertainty
exist in the twilight zone - to occupy an ambiguous position
enter the twilight zone - to enter a strange or surreal situation
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