physical barrier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "physical barrier" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an obstacle or hindrance that is tangible and can be physically interacted with, often in contexts related to science, health, or security. Example: "The construction of a physical barrier along the border was intended to prevent illegal crossings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It created a large physical barrier".

The New York Times

Hasn't technology made the physical barrier obsolete to border security?

The New York Times

"This is a physical barrier to check infiltration".

The New York Times

"Every time I have hit a physical barrier, I have found a way around it.

The Guardian - Sport

We can secure the border without a physical barrier, using electronics".

The Guardian

It is not uncommon to try to solve problems by putting up a physical barrier.

The Guardian - Arts

The line is not a fence or a road, but it still marks a physical barrier.

The New York Times - Science

Efforts to build a "virtual fence" to supplement the physical barrier have proven challenging.

The Washington Post

Instead, "a physical barrier in many places" is what the administration is requesting.

The Washington Post

Constructing a physical barrier in southern Texas, some said, should be avoided if possible.

The Washington Post

Kelly used the term "physical barrier" several times during the meeting, attendees said.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing security measures, use "physical barrier" to clearly denote a tangible impediment designed to prevent unauthorized access or intrusion.

Common error

While "physical barrier" is appropriate for tangible obstacles, avoid using it metaphorically when referring to abstract challenges. Instead, consider alternatives like "obstacle", "impediment", or "challenge" for non-physical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physical barrier" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI shows that it is used to identify a tangible object that impedes movement or access.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "physical barrier" is a commonly used noun phrase denoting a tangible obstruction. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse fields, including news, science, and academia. It serves primarily to describe or inform about a tangible impediment, maintaining a neutral register suitable for broad communication. When writing, ensure it's used for actual physical obstacles and not abstract challenges. Related phrases include "tangible obstacle" and "material impediment", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tangible obstacle

Focuses on the tactile and real nature of the obstruction, emphasizing its physicality.

material impediment

Highlights the substantial and obstructive nature of the barrier, suggesting a significant hindrance.

concrete barricade

Specifies a type of physical barrier, implying a solid and often man-made structure.

visible obstruction

Emphasizes the aspect of being seen and recognized as something that blocks passage or view.

solid bulwark

Conveys a sense of strength and protection, implying a fortified barrier.

impassable blockade

Highlights the characteristic of not being able to be passed or overcome.

impenetrable defense

Focuses on the barrier's ability to resist intrusion or attack, implying security.

structural safeguard

Emphasizes the protective function of the barrier as part of a larger system.

corporeal hindrance

Highlights the bodily or tangible nature of the impediment, suggesting a direct physical obstruction.

palpable constraint

Emphasizes the easily felt or recognized nature of the limitation imposed by the barrier.

FAQs

How is a "physical barrier" different from other types of barriers?

A "physical barrier" is a tangible obstruction that prevents movement or access, unlike "intangible barriers" such as rules or regulations.

What are some examples of a "physical barrier"?

Examples of a "physical barrier" include walls, fences, doors, and other structures designed to block passage or entry.

What can I say instead of "physical barrier"?

You can use alternatives like "tangible obstacle", "material impediment", or "concrete barricade" depending on the context.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the term "physical barrier"?

The term "physical barrier" is appropriate in contexts related to security, construction, health, and science, where a tangible obstruction is being discussed.