at the barrier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the barrier" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to physical barriers, checkpoints, or metaphorical barriers in discussions or narratives. Example: "The crowd gathered at the barrier, eager to catch a glimpse of the performers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

52 Have your ticket ready at the barrier.

The Guardian

Now I have to show a passport at the barrier to get home.

The New York Times

Alarms went off, but workers at the barrier didn't check the luggage.

The Guardian - Opinion

I believe you have to look at the barrier of entry for both groups.

The Guardian - Tech

At the barrier, I was told to find another member of staff who could help me.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's good enough to thwart Aurelio, who bangs his shot straight at the barrier.

The Guardian - Sport

In the 16th century, fighting on foot at the barrier with short spears became popular.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The great American road trip goes west, not east, and it ends at the barrier of the Pacific Ocean.

The Guardian - Travel

The firefighters don't seem too heartbroken as they wait at the barrier on Argall Avenue in Leyton.

The Guardian - Arts

Covered in ice, a water protector kneels in protest at the barrier by the Standing Rock encampment.

The New Yorker

I pulled up at the barrier and handed my documents to the man in the car-hire booth.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions with security or controlled access points, use "at the barrier" to clearly indicate the specific location where checks or procedures take place.

Common error

Avoid using "at the barrier" when you mean to describe something located on the opposite side of it. "At the barrier" indicates being positioned right where the barrier is, while "behind the barrier" specifies a location beyond it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the barrier" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It indicates a specific location in relation to a barrier, whether physical (like a security checkpoint) or metaphorical (like a limit or boundary). Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the barrier" is a prepositional phrase denoting a specific location in relation to a barrier, commonly used across various contexts, including news, science, and general discourse. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage. To use it effectively, remember that it specifies a location directly next to the barrier itself, not behind it. Related phrases include "near the barrier" and "by the barrier". By understanding its function and purpose, you can confidently incorporate it into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

near the barrier

Indicates a location in close proximity to the barrier, emphasizing closeness rather than direct interaction.

by the barrier

Suggests a position immediately next to the barrier, often implying a casual or incidental location.

close to the barrier

Emphasizes the short distance to the barrier, highlighting nearness and accessibility.

in front of the barrier

Specifies a location directly facing the barrier, focusing on the line of sight or direction.

at the edge of the barrier

Highlights being situated right on the boundary or perimeter of the barrier.

alongside the barrier

Implies a parallel position to the barrier, suggesting movement or alignment with it.

adjacent to the barrier

Indicates a neighboring position, highlighting physical closeness and contiguity.

in the vicinity of the barrier

Suggests a general area or region around the barrier, without specifying an exact location.

in proximity to the barrier

Highlights the closeness of the location to the barrier in a more formal tone.

near the perimeter

Focuses on proximity to the outer boundary, implying a secure or defined area.

FAQs

How can I use "at the barrier" in a sentence?

Use "at the barrier" to indicate a location right next to a physical or metaphorical obstruction. For example, "The officer checked passports "at the barrier"".

What are some alternatives to "at the barrier"?

Alternatives include "near the barrier", "by the barrier", or "close to the barrier", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "at the barrier" or "at the barriers"?

"At the barrier" refers to a specific, singular barrier. "At the barriers" is used when referring to multiple barriers or a series of barriers.

What's the difference between "at the barrier" and "behind the barrier"?

"At the barrier" indicates being located right next to the barrier itself, whereas "behind the barrier" implies being on the opposite side of the barrier, further away from the point of access or control.