creating a barrier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "creating a barrier" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the act of establishing a separation or obstacle, whether physical, emotional, or metaphorical. Example: "The new policy is creating a barrier between management and employees, making communication more difficult."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"You almost stop creating a barrier for yourself.

The New York Times - Sports

"A line literally forms between two populations, creating a barrier.

Harvard University

This problem is creating a barrier between you and your wife, which needs to be addressed.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Cubism served Picasso well by creating a barrier to self-expression.

The New Yorker

One solution to the problem is creating a barrier against the encroaching water.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Despite antiretroviral therapy, HIV-1 persists in memory CD4+ T cells, creating a barrier to cure.

Cell Host & Microbe

As anyone with contact lenses or glasses knows, creating a barrier between your eyes and the onion vapors works wonders.

The New York Times - Food

The hydrates act almost like cement, creating a barrier that prevents more free methane from coming up from below.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

21 24 Such stigma may prevent mentally ill persons from improving their conditions 25 by creating a 'barrier to recovery' 26 and worsen their situation by pushing them into poverty through discriminatory practices.

BMJ Open

Creating a barrier cuts off plaque's nutrient supply.

Huffington Post

Campaigners against the route have argued that it will slice the levels in two, creating a barrier for wildlife.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "creating a barrier", consider the type of barrier you are referring to (physical, metaphorical, emotional) to choose the most appropriate wording and imagery for your context.

Common error

In casual conversation or informal writing, using "creating a barrier" may sound overly formal. Consider using simpler alternatives such as "blocking" or "getting in the way" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "creating a barrier" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the action of establishing an impediment, separation, or obstacle. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "creating a barrier" is a grammatically correct and commonly used gerund phrase that describes the action of establishing an obstacle. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. While versatile, it is most frequently found in News & Media and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, consider the specific type of barrier and the intended tone to ensure effective communication. Alternatives such as "erecting an obstacle" or "forming an obstruction" can provide subtle variations in meaning and style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

erecting an obstacle

Changes from the gerund form to a present participle, emphasizing the action of putting up the barrier.

forming an obstruction

Focuses on the aspect of blocking or impeding progress.

building a blockade

Implies a more forceful and often physical barrier.

establishing a hindrance

Highlights the effect of slowing down or preventing something.

putting up a barricade

Emphasizes a temporary or makeshift barrier, often for protection.

setting up an impediment

Focuses on establishing something that obstructs or hinders.

raising an obstacle

Suggests a more formal or deliberate act of creating a barrier.

developing a restriction

Highlights the aspect of limiting or controlling something.

fostering a division

Emphasizes separation and lack of unity, often in a social context.

generating a complication

Focuses on introducing difficulties and making things more complex.

FAQs

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

You can use "creating a barrier" to describe the act of establishing a physical, emotional, or metaphorical obstacle. For example, "The new policy is "creating a barrier" between management and employees".

What are some alternatives to "creating a barrier"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "erecting an obstacle", "forming an obstruction", or "building a blockade".

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "creating a barrier"?

While grammatically correct, "creating a barrier" might be too formal for very casual contexts. Consider your audience and choose language that suits the tone of your writing or conversation.

What's the difference between "creating a barrier" and "removing a barrier"?

"Creating a barrier" refers to the act of establishing an obstacle, while "removing a barrier" means eliminating an existing obstacle. They are opposite actions with contrasting implications.