B2noun2K

Barrier

UK /["/ˈbæriə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈbæriər/"]/

Definition

an object like a fence that prevents people from moving forward from one place to another

In simple words: A thing that stops movement or makes it difficult.

Examples

  • The wall acted as a barrier against the strong winds.
  • Language can sometimes be a barrier to effective communication.
  • They erected a barrier to keep the animals from wandering onto the road.
  • Cultural differences can create barriers in understanding between people.
  • The company faced a barrier in launching its product due to regulatory issues.

Usage notes

Use 'barrier' when talking about physical obstacles or metaphorical ones, like challenges in life. It is suitable in both spoken and written contexts, but less common in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

barrier + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'bar' that prevents entry, like a barrier at a concert.

Collocations

  • physical
  • crash
  • crush
  • build
  • erect
  • install
  • at a/​the barrier
  • behind a/​the barrier
  • through a/​the barrier
  • effective
  • formidable
  • major
  • build
  • create
  • erect
  • barrier against
  • barrier between
  • barrier to
  • impassable
  • impenetrable
  • natural
  • form
  • barrier between

Synonyms

  • obstacle
  • hindrance
  • impediment
  • fence
  • wall

Antonyms

  • openness
  • accessibility
  • obstacle removal

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'barricade', which is typically more temporary.
  • Using 'barrier' incorrectly as a verb; it's a noun.
  • Using 'barrier' in overly casual settings where simpler words would do.