cross this barrier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cross this barrier" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing overcoming obstacles or challenges, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we must find a way to cross this barrier that is holding us back."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"My idea was to try all drugs that cross this barrier in a cell model".

The New York Times

Getting protons close enough to cross this barrier and to allow the strong force to bind them requires tremendous energy.

The New Yorker

"Today during training, I said that this time around it is not against Australia, so that is a surplus, but definitely we want to cross this barrier, we have been here so many times and know how to approach it," said the West Indies captain on the eve of the women's semi-final tie against New Zealand in Mumbai.

The Guardian - Sport

In connection with this drawback, we elaborate the architecture of the BBB and review possible mechanisms to cross this barrier by engineered nanoparticles.

International Review of Neurobiology

Having studied the classical form of Western music as a youth I bought heavily into the notion that not only was songwriting intended to be difficult, but that only certain people could actually cross this barrier into "composer" or "songwriter" and provide the rest of us with the notation and songs.

Vice

In this experiment, a monolayer of Caco-2 gut epithelial cells was grown on a transwell membrane, and the ability of naringenin to cross this barrier is measured over time.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

No cars are allowed, so the only way to get around is on foot or bike via the maze of narrow boardwalks that criss-cross this barrier island off the south shore of Long Island.

The Guardian - Travel

Hence, crossing this barrier is one of the most significant challenges in the development of efficient central nervous system therapeutics.

Drug Discovery Today

Moreover, the blood brain barrier is not fully developed until after the first year of life, and methyl mercury can cross this incomplete barrier (Rodier 1995).

Environmental Health Perspectives

To help customers cross this psychological barrier Gaglani decided to make a new doctors' bag.

BBC

The inset of Fig. 2d shows that electrons tunneling from source region cannot cross this channel barrier to form the higher reading "0" current.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cross this barrier", consider the specific type of barrier you are referring to – is it physical, metaphorical, or conceptual? Tailor your language to suit the context.

Common error

While "cross this barrier" is acceptable, be mindful of overuse in informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "overcome this issue" might be more appropriate for casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cross this barrier" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of overcoming a specific obstacle or limitation. As Ludwig AI notes, it's generally grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples show it used in contexts ranging from scientific research to personal challenges.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cross this barrier" serves as a versatile expression for overcoming challenges, suitable for neutral to formal contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its primary function is to describe an effort to surpass a significant impediment, whether physical, conceptual, or metaphorical. While prevalent in scientific and news domains, consider using alternative phrases such as "overcome this obstacle" or "break through this barrier" in more informal settings to enhance clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcome this obstacle

Focuses on a specific impediment, implying a direct confrontation and resolution.

surmount this challenge

Emphasizes the difficulty of the task, suggesting effort and skill are required to succeed.

break through this barrier

Suggests a forceful action to overcome a resistant obstacle.

transcend this limitation

Implies rising above a restriction, often in a metaphorical or philosophical sense.

pass this hurdle

Uses a sports metaphor, indicating a need to clear a specific impediment in a series of steps.

get past this impediment

Focuses on moving beyond an obstacle that is hindering progress.

clear this obstacle

Implies removing or successfully navigating around an obstruction.

scale this wall

Evokes the image of climbing over a tall barrier, suggesting a significant effort.

navigate this obstacle

Suggests carefully maneuvering around a challenge, implying strategy and skill.

push through this barrier

Emphasizes the need for sustained effort and determination to overcome resistance.

FAQs

What does "cross this barrier" mean?

To "cross this barrier" means to overcome an obstacle or limitation. It implies successfully navigating a challenge that stands in the way of progress or achievement.

How can I use "cross this barrier" in a sentence?

You can use "cross this barrier" to describe overcoming both physical and metaphorical obstacles. For example, "Scientists are working to "cross this barrier" in cancer research" or "The company needs to "cross this barrier" to reach new markets".

What are some alternatives to "cross this barrier"?

Some alternatives include "overcome this obstacle", "surmount this challenge", or "break through this barrier". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nature of the barrier.

Is it appropriate to use "cross this barrier" in formal writing?

Yes, "cross this barrier" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in scientific or technical contexts where it accurately describes overcoming specific limitations. However, consider your audience and choose the most precise and impactful language.