空间 (kōngjiān) is the general word for 'space' — a physical area or volume, abstract scope, or outer space. Unlike 地方 (dìfang, 'place'), which often refers to a specific location or available capacity, 空间 emphasizes the empty area or room itself. For outer space, use the more specific 太空 (tàikōng); for abstract leeway or margin, 余地 (yúdì) is narrower.