A2noun1K

Gate

UK /["/ɡeɪt/"]/US /["/ɡeɪt/"]/

Definition

a barrier like a door that is used to close an opening in a fence or a wall outside a building

In simple words: A gate is a movable barrier that is used to close off an entrance.

Examples

  • The gate to the park is always open during the day.
  • He forgot to close the gate after letting the dog out.
  • We arrived at the airport and went straight to the gate.
  • The old wooden gate creaked when I pushed it.
  • She stood by the gate waiting for her friend to arrive.

Usage notes

Use 'gate' when referring to physical barriers at entrances. Avoid in abstract contexts or when discussing unrelated topics like 'freedom' or 'opportunity'.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'gate' as a 'great' opening to a yard.

Collocations

  • front
  • main
  • entrance
  • set
  • open
  • bar
  • close
  • open
  • swing open
  • close
  • through a/​the gate
  • front
  • main
  • entrance
  • set
  • open
  • bar
  • close
  • open
  • swing open
  • close
  • through a/​the gate
  • front
  • main
  • entrance
  • set
  • open
  • bar
  • close
  • open
  • swing open
  • close
  • through a/​the gate
  • front
  • main
  • entrance
  • set
  • open
  • bar
  • close
  • open
  • swing open
  • close
  • through a/​the gate

Synonyms

  • barrier
  • entrance
  • opening
  • portal
  • fence

Antonyms

  • barrier
  • blockade

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gait' (manner of walking)
  • Using 'gate' as a verb when it's only a noun
  • Forget to use 'the' or 'a' before it