What is barrier? Pronunciation and usage in English

barrier means . Learn how to pronounce and use barrier through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of barrier

barriernoun

/ˈbarɪə/
Definition & pronunciation of barrier

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "barrier" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few ways to approach it:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "bar": This part is relatively straightforward. Say "bar" as in "bare," like you're describing something without clothing. The "a" sound is short and open.
  • "rier": This is the tricky part. It’s a diphthong – a combination of two vowel sounds. It sounds like "ree-er."

2. Putting it Together:

  • Stress: The stress is on the first syllable, "bar."
  • Pronunciation: It’s generally pronounced: ˈbæriər (with the 'æ' sound as in "cat")

Here's a breakdown of the sounds, more precisely:

  • ˈbæ - Like "bah" but with a slightly more rounded "a" sound (like in "father").
  • -riː- – “ree” as in “see” followed by a quick “er” sound (like in “her”).

Tips & Resources:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: This is the most helpful thing you can do. Here are some resources:

    • Google Translate: Type "barrier" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. (https://translate.google.com/)
    • Forvo: This website has pronunciations from native speakers from many different regions: (https://forvo.com/word/barrier/)
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce barrier" on YouTube – you'll find many videos.

  • Mimicry: Try saying it repeatedly after a native speaker. Record yourself and compare it to their pronunciation.

  • Focus on the "ree-er" sound: Really concentrate on getting that combined vowel sound right. It’s the key to a natural-sounding pronunciation.

Common Mispronunciations:

  • Saying "bear-ee-er" (separating the sounds) - This is incorrect.
  • A flat "ree" sound without the glide to the “er.”

Would you like me to:

  • Say the word aloud?
  • Give you some more examples of words containing similar sounds?

Usage and examples with the word barrier in English

Let's break down how to use the word "barrier" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so understanding the context is key.

1. Literal Barrier - Physical Obstacles:

  • Definition: This is the most straightforward meaning – something that blocks or prevents movement.
  • Examples:
    • "A barrier of trees blocked our view of the ocean." (a physical block)
    • "The police erected a barrier to protect the crowd." (temporary obstacle)
    • "The old stone wall served as a barrier against flooding." (preventing water)
    • "He tripped over a barrier on the sidewalk." (literal obstacle to step over)

2. Abstract Barriers – Challenges & Obstacles (Most Common Usage):

  • Definition: This is where "barrier" gets more interesting. It refers to something that prevents success, progress, or understanding – these are not physical things.
  • Examples:
    • "Barriers to education include poverty and lack of access to schools." (challenges preventing access)
    • "Language can be a barrier to communication." (difficulty in understanding)
    • "Cultural barriers often lead to misunderstandings between people from different countries." (differences in values, beliefs, etc.)
    • "His lack of experience was a barrier to getting the job." (a hindrance to success)
    • "He overcame the barriers of his past to build a successful life." (challenges he faced)
    • "The outdated laws represent a barrier to social justice." (obstacles preventing fairness)

3. Figurative Barrier – Restrictions or Limitations:

  • Definition: Similar to abstract barriers, but often related to personal limitations or societal structures.
  • Examples:
    • "Fear is a barrier to creativity." (prevents expressing yourself)
    • "Self-doubt can be a major barrier to achieving your goals." (inner obstacle)
    • "The system creates barriers for marginalized communities." (structural limitations)

4. In Specific Fields (More Technical):

  • Biology: A biological barrier, like the blood-brain barrier, protects the brain from harmful substances.
  • Engineering: A barrier in construction is a protective wall.

Key Ways to Use "Barrier" Effectively:

  • Use with “to”: Often used with the preposition "to" to indicate what something is a barrier to. (e.g., “a barrier to progress,” “a barrier to communication”)
  • Synonyms: Consider these synonyms to vary your language: obstacle, hindrance, difficulty, challenge, impediment, restriction, limitation.

Let’s Practice!

Can you give me a sentence using “barrier” in one of the ways we discussed? Or, would you like me to give you some example sentences focusing on a particular context (e.g., education, communication, personal growth)?

Synonyms for the word barrier

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