barrier
Meaning: Something that blocks or prevents progress or movement; an obstacle
A barrier is something that blocks movement or prevents something from happening. Physical barriers include fences and walls. Abstract barriers include 'language barriers' (difficulty communicating across languages) and 'trade barriers' (obstacles to international commerce). 'To break down barriers' means to remove obstacles.
Examples
- Language can be a barrier to effective communication. 语言可能成为有效沟通的障碍。El idioma puede ser una barrera para la comunicación efectiva.言語は効果的なコミュニケーションの障壁になることがあります。언어는 효과적인 의사소통의 장벽이 될 수 있습니다.
- Crash barriers were installed along the dangerous stretch of road. 在危险路段安装了防撞护栏。Se instalaron barreras de protección a lo largo del tramo peligroso de la carretera.危険な道路区間に衝突防止柵が設置されました。위험한 도로 구간에 충돌 방지 가드레일이 설치되었습니다.
- We need to break down the barriers between departments. 我们需要打破部门之间的壁垒。Necesitamos derribar las barreras entre departamentos.部門間の壁を取り払う必要があります。부서 간의 장벽을 허물어야 합니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Anglo-French 'barere', from Old French 'barre' meaning 'a bar, obstacle', from Vulgar Latin 'barra' (bar, barrier). Related to 'bar', 'barricade', 'embargo', and 'embarrass' (originally 'to block, obstruct').
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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