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functions as a barrier
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "functions as a barrier" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that serves to block or impede movement, access, or progress in a particular context. Example: "The new security system functions as a barrier to unauthorized access to the building."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
34 human-written examples
The bar functions as a barrier to keep back a surging throng of merrymakers.
News & Media
But the peril is an illusion, because the main surfaces are separated from the edges by a ha-ha, a sunken walkway that functions as a barrier.
News & Media
Based on his study of companies like Hewlett-Packard, Northrop Grumman and Levi Strauss, he argues that a strong reputation "draws repeat business, allows firms to charge higher prices, attracts better job applicants, enhances access to capital markets, attracts investors and functions as a barrier to entry into markets".
News & Media
Meanwhile, the outer silicon layer functions as a barrier for protection against foreign body infiltration into wound site.
Graphite is used in the HGTR/VHTR as moderator and it also functions as a barrier to fission product release.
Science
Therefore, we are not certain whether fluid flows preferentially within the fault zone in the frontal thrust region or whether it functions as a barrier.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
26 human-written examples
"I suspect that the twigs and branches still function as a barrier," Dr. Cadenasso said.
News & Media
SGO is placed in the polymer matrix to function as a barrier to methanol molecules.
Science
Such a N-doped carbon shell functioned as a barrier to prevent the encapsulated nanoparticle from coalescence.
Science
These indicated that it was possible to design the clay surround to function as a barrier protecting the structure from the ingress of the leachate.
Science
Another main role is the function as a barrier to water permeation, a phenomenon of normal transfer of water through the stratum corneum into the atmosphere, known as transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which represents part of insensible water loss [41].
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using the phrase "functions as a barrier", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being blocked or impeded. For example, "The new policy functions as a barrier to innovation."
Common error
Avoid overusing "functions as a barrier" in contexts where the impediment is weak or easily overcome. Choose a stronger verb if the obstacle is significant, or a different phrase if it's merely a minor inconvenience.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "functions as a barrier" primarily serves as a predicate in sentences, describing the role or purpose of a subject. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used. For example, "The wall functions as a barrier to the floodwaters."
Frequent in
Science
64%
News & Media
24%
Wiki
8%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "functions as a barrier" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something that obstructs or impedes progress, movement, or access. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for use in written English. This phrase is particularly prevalent in scientific and news contexts, highlighting its role in describing both physical and abstract impediments. Alternatives such as "acts as an impediment" or "serves as an obstacle" can be used to add variety to your writing. Remember to use this phrase when you clearly want to indicate a preventative or obstructive role, and ensure the context specifies what is being blocked. The phrase appears in a variety of authoritative sources including The New York Times, ScienceDirect and PlosOne.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
acts as an impediment
Replaces "barrier" with "impediment", emphasizing the hindering effect.
serves as an obstacle
Substitutes "barrier" with "obstacle", highlighting the obstructive nature.
forms an obstruction
Similar to "obstacle", but focuses on the act of obstructing.
works as a block
Uses "block" instead of "barrier", suggesting a more direct form of obstruction.
creates a hindrance
Uses "hindrance" to describe the impeding effect, focusing on the difficulty caused.
constitutes a hurdle
Replaces "barrier" with "hurdle", implying a challenge to overcome.
operates as a safeguard
Emphasizes a protective function, rather than a purely obstructive one.
presents a deterrent
Focuses on discouraging or preventing action.
provides a defense
Highlights the defensive aspect of the barrier, implying protection.
acts as a regulator
Emphasizes a controlling function rather than a pure barrier.
FAQs
How can I use "functions as a barrier" in a sentence?
Use "functions as a barrier" to describe something that prevents or impedes movement, access, or progress. For example, "The mountain range functions as a barrier to the spread of the invasive species."
What are some alternatives to "functions as a barrier"?
You can use alternatives like "acts as an impediment", "serves as an obstacle", or "creates a hindrance" depending on the context.
What does it mean when something "functions as a barrier"?
When something "functions as a barrier", it means that it prevents or significantly hinders the movement, passage, or effect of something else. It implies an obstruction, whether physical or abstract.
Is it correct to say something "functions as a barrier"?
Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe something that obstructs or impedes progress. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested