barrier

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'barrier' is correct and usable in written English.
The word 'barrier' can be used to describe a physical or metaphorical obstacle, or an obstacle that stands in the way of achieving a goal. For example, "The language barrier prevented me from effectively communicating with my new colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cameron said: "We're going to make that assessment a real and robust one, and yes, it's going to include whether your ability to speak English is a barrier to work.

The Guardian

"There was still one problem: we did not know whether, when we came to the final barrier, we would need a pass.

The Guardian

During a recent trip to South Africa, as a finalist in the Guardian International Development Journalism competition, I realised my disfigurement could have been a potential barrier when interviewing case studies in the townships; I had to make the interviewees feel comfortable looking at my face.

The Guardian

Shackled by the high threshold, pro-Kurdish candidates had previously run as independents in single seats to try to beat the 10% party barrier.

The Guardian

Even so comedy scenes such as Del boy's 'falling through the bar' or 'the chandelier repair' transcended any language barrier".

The Guardian

But ultimately we didn't do quite enough with enough people to get them over that fear barrier and that's why we didn't win".

The Guardian

Related: 'Big two' look for common ground in Lib Dem manifesto The remarks suggest that even an informal understanding between Labour and the SNP could represent a barrier to Clegg striking a post-election deal with Ed Miliband's party.

The Guardian

A saver would need to have more than £72,000 deposited in the current top-paying easy access account (paying 1.4%) to breach the £1,000-a-year income barrier.

The Guardian - Money

From the distant steps of the newly opened war monument it didn't so much resemble a double-sided statue as a displaced Besser brick – an odd disjunctive barrier to the eye following the otherwise unbroken land axis.

The Guardian

Even where controls are in place, any barrier, password or ringfence can be circumvented with just a click.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There was a barrier between us so I had to jump over it," he says now. "That's all, otherwise I might have just steamed in with my fists.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "barrier" in your writing, consider whether it's a physical obstruction or a metaphorical one. Choose synonyms like "obstacle" or "impediment" for varied phrasing.

Common error

Avoid using "barrier" repetitively in your text when more specific terms like "hurdle" or "restraint" might provide a more nuanced understanding of the obstruction you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The word "barrier" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a structure or circumstance that impedes movement or progress. Ludwig examples show its application in both physical and abstract contexts, aligning with its definitional role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "barrier" is a versatile noun frequently used to describe both physical and metaphorical obstructions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across diverse contexts. While "barrier" is appropriate in many situations, considering synonyms like "obstacle", "impediment", or "hindrance" can add nuance to your writing. Its prevalence in news media underscores its role in conveying real-world challenges, while its use in formal and scientific contexts highlights its analytical utility. Remember to choose the most precise term based on the specific context to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstacle

Refers to something that blocks one's way or prevents progress, synonymous with "barrier".

impediment

Highlights something that hinders or obstructs, similar to "barrier" but often implies a more formal or legal obstruction.

hindrance

Emphasizes the act of delaying or preventing something, closely related to the effect of a "barrier".

roadblock

Specifically denotes a physical or metaphorical obstacle preventing progress, similar to "barrier".

obstruction

Focuses on the act of blocking or impeding, synonymous with the function of a "barrier".

hurdle

Implies an obstacle that must be overcome, like a "barrier", but suggests effort to surmount it.

check

Signifies a sudden stop or restraint, similar to how a "barrier" halts progress.

restraint

Highlights the act of holding back or limiting, akin to the function of a "barrier".

limitation

Indicates a restriction or boundary, similar to the effect of a "barrier" setting limits.

boundary

Emphasizes the edge or limit of something, which can act as a "barrier".

FAQs

How can I use "barrier" in a sentence?

You can use "barrier" to describe a physical obstruction, like "The wall served as a barrier", or a metaphorical one, such as "Language can be a barrier to communication".

What are some alternatives to the word "barrier"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "obstacle", "impediment", or "hindrance". Each carries slightly different connotations.

What is the difference between "barrier" and "obstacle"?

"Barrier" typically refers to something that physically blocks passage or progress, while "obstacle" can refer to anything that impedes progress, whether physical or abstract.

Is it correct to use "barrier" in a formal setting?

Yes, "barrier" is appropriate in formal settings. However, consider more precise terms if available, like "restriction" or "limitation", for added clarity.