excavated area

An excavated area is a distinctly formed hole or carved space on the Earth's surface or under the surface, which is shaped or formed by digging, drilling, cutting, or blasting into the earth and removing natural material to form a stable cavity. These can be formed by removal of rock, soil, sand, clay, or other land formations.

Material is removed to create a stable hole or cavity with a distinct form. The excavation can lie at the surface or continue below it.

A pit, trench, or well has a more specific geometry or purpose. The excavated space is distinct from a structure subsequently built inside it.