barrier off

USAGE SUMMARY

"barrier off" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It is usually used to describe a physical barrier that has been erected to block or "barrier off" a particular area. For example, "The beach was closed off due to the storm, so police had to put up a barrier to barrier off access to the beach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Language has not been a barrier off the course and age has not been one on it.

The New York Times - Sports

Prof Falconer says that another proposed barrier off the North Wales coast, the Clwyd Impoundment, could curb the sea's ability to destroy the coast in areas where people may not have the resources to protect themselves.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"The finish was completely barriered off, there were more press there than we are used to at women's racing but that's a positive when you look at it.

The Guardian - Sport

"I'm petrified of dropping anything from heights not because I'm afraid of hurting anyone (the area is barriered off), but because I'm afraid of getting fired," one worker wrote.

The New York Times

The ODD domain derived from HIF1A gene can be inserted downstream of the transgene and facilitate degradation of the fusion protein product in cells under physiological oxygen concentration, thus adding an extra barrier on off-target transgene expression.

BioMed Research International

Both males and females indicated that a combination of the KGR's isolation and poor road access is an obvious barrier to off-reserve sales opportunities.

Pastoralism

It functions as a climatic barrier, cutting off the southwestern monsoon rains from central Myanmar.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Israel's separation barrier, closing off the West Bank, is, in other words, an unacceptable land grab.

The New York Times

During a squall, I hit a barrier reef off Andros.

Huffington Post

Creating a barrier cuts off plaque's nutrient supply.

Huffington Post

For example, barriers start off in the form of a rail of spikes across a section of path.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "barrier off", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being separated and the means of separation. For example, "Police barriered off the crime scene with tape."

Common error

Avoid using "barrier off" in purely abstract contexts. It usually refers to a physical separation or a very concrete obstacle. Instead of saying "They barriered off their emotions", consider using "They suppressed their emotions" or "They built a wall around their feelings".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "barrier off" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, denoting the action of creating a physical or metaphorical barrier to restrict access or movement. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its validity. The provided examples showcase its use in contexts involving physical barriers.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "barrier off" is a valid phrasal verb that describes the act of creating a barrier to isolate or restrict access to an area. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, although its frequency is considered rare. It is most commonly found in news and media sources and carries a neutral tone. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being separated and the means of separation. While grammatically correct, consider alternatives like "cordon off" or "seal off" for subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cordon off

Emphasizes creating a boundary, often with the implication of preventing access or movement.

seal off

Highlights the complete closure of an area, preventing entry or exit.

block off

Focuses on obstructing access or passage to an area.

fence off

Specifically implies using a fence to create a boundary.

close off

A more general term for preventing access or use.

isolate

Highlights the separation of something from its surroundings.

separate

Focuses on creating a distinction between two things or areas.

demarcate

Emphasizes the act of clearly marking the boundaries of something.

segregate

Implies the separation of groups or individuals, often with social or political connotations.

enclose

Focuses on surrounding something completely, creating a contained space.

FAQs

How can I use "barrier off" in a sentence?

You can use "barrier off" to describe physically blocking an area to prevent access, like "The construction site was barriered off for safety reasons."

What can I say instead of "barrier off"?

Alternatives to "barrier off" include "cordon off", "seal off", or "block off", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "barrier off" or "barricade off"?

"Barrier off" and "barricade off" are both valid, but "barrier off" is more common and generally refers to a less fortified separation. "Barricade off" implies a more substantial and defensive blockade.

What's the difference between "barrier off" and "fence off"?

"Barrier off" is a general term for creating a separation, while "fence off" specifically implies using a fence to create that separation.