Cool MateBarrier
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.