Barrier Meaning
Barrier Definition & Usage
A physical structure that blocks or prevents passage or movement.
Examples
- "The construction of a high fence became a major barrier to the wildlife migration."
- "The city is building a barrier along the coast to protect it from flooding."
- "We found ourselves stuck behind a large barrier that stopped us from entering the restricted area."
- "The security guard warned us that crossing the barrier would result in arrest."
- "The road was closed off by barriers due to a car accident."
A challenge or obstacle that makes progress or achievement difficult.
Examples
- "Her lack of experience was a barrier to getting the job she wanted."
- "Language can be a barrier when working with international clients."
- "He faced numerous barriers in his efforts to start the business, including financial difficulties."
- "Cultural differences can sometimes act as a barrier to effective communication."
- "The economic downturn has created a barrier to many people's ability to buy homes."
A challenge or defense that prevents the opponent from scoring or advancing.
Examples
- "The goalkeeper was a formidable barrier, preventing the opposing team from scoring."
- "He broke through the defensive barrier with a spectacular move."
- "The tennis player's strong serve acted as a barrier to his opponent’s return."
- "Her quick thinking and reaction times made her a solid barrier against the competition."
- "The boxer used his jab as a barrier to keep his opponent at a distance."
Cultural Context
Barriers are not only physical but also metaphorical, representing challenges in many different aspects of life. From the Berlin Wall, which divided East and West Germany, to modern-day barriers that separate people, cultures, and ideas, the concept of barriers has held significant cultural and historical importance.
The Barrier Between Us
Story
The Barrier Between Us
Sophia stood at the edge of the river, gazing across to the distant shore. A long concrete wall had been erected during the war, dividing the two cities. On one side, her family had remained, and on the other, the world she yearned to explore seemed just out of reach. The barrier, solid and imposing, stood between her and the freedom she dreamed of. 'How long do you think it will be before we can cross?' she asked Thomas, her childhood friend. 'Not long,' he said, his eyes scanning the bleak structure. 'Once the restrictions are lifted, we'll find a way.' Despite the wall, their friendship had survived. They spoke daily, sharing stories, thoughts, and hopes. Yet, the barrier of geography and political division had never been more pronounced. It was not just the wall they faced, but a system of rules, fears, and prejudices that kept them apart. As they planned their escape, Sophia couldn’t help but think of how many other kinds of barriers they had to overcome. There was the social barrier—her family did not approve of their bond, too many old grudges, too much history between the two cities. And there was the psychological barrier—her own fear of the unknown, of what lay beyond that concrete divide. One day, Sophia found a narrow opening in the wall. It wasn't much, but it was a start. Her heart raced as she squeezed through, feeling the weight of her decision. As she stepped into the unknown, she realized that some barriers were meant to be crossed, no matter the cost. Sometimes, the barriers outside of us are nothing compared to the ones we build inside ourselves. Thomas followed her, his hand brushing against hers. 'We did it,' he said. 'We broke through.' And for the first time, the world didn’t seem so divided anymore.
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