Being friend- zoned means a lady or a guy you like is about to forcefully make you their friend instead of their lover.
The best way to avoid being friend-zoned is by making sure you know your feelings and the person’s behavior because you don’t want to lose being friends too.
Also, is the other party in a relationship? If yes you should withdraw in other not to lose their friendship too.
However, if the other party is single make your feelings known and your intensions pure. The best way to know if the other party wants to be in a relationship with you or is just being nice to you is, when they see you are they excited?
When they are with you are they lively? Or do they always want to leave and are you the one always initiating conversations.