French Conversation · Level 115
59 words
French word
barrière
Pronunciation
IPA/baʁjɛʁ/
Meaning
- feminine noungate
Example
La barrière est fermée.
The gate is closed.
More examples
Elle a ouvert la barrière.
She opened the barrier.
Core concept
A boundary placed across a path, whether physical or invisible, that keeps movement from continuing freely.
Common phrases
ouvrir la barrière
open the barrier
fermer la barrière
close the barrier
enjamber la barrière
climb over the barrier
Similar words
clôture: A low, continuous fence enclosing a garden or plot of land.
mur: A stone or concrete wall that completely separates a passage or area.
portail: A large door or gate fitted for entry and exit.
grille: A metal grille at an entrance that restricts passage.
Definition in French
Élément servant à fermer ou à délimiter un passage ; sens étendu : tout obstacle empêchant le passage ou la circulation.
Word origin
The word combines barre, a bar or transverse piece, with the derivative suffix -ière, producing the name of a structure that blocks access and later of abstract obstacles.
Usage tips
- In faire barrière à, the preposition à introduces what is being blocked, as in faire barrière à la circulation.