Barrier vs. Obstacle — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 13, 2023
A barrier is a structure or factor that prevents movement or access, while an obstacle is something that impedes progress or achievement.
Difference Between Barrier and Obstacle
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A barrier typically implies a more solid or permanent structure or factor that prevents or restricts movement, access, or progress. For instance, in physical terms, it can be a wall or a gate. Conversely, an obstacle is a broader term and can refer to anything that stands in the way or hinders progress, whether physical, emotional, or mental.
When we think of a barrier, it often suggests something intentionally placed to keep something out or in. A fence around a property, for instance, is a barrier to prevent trespassing. On the other hand, an obstacle might not always be intentionally placed. A fallen tree on a road can serve as an obstacle for travelers.
In metaphorical contexts, a barrier could refer to language or cultural differences that prevent clear communication between two parties. An obstacle, in similar non-literal contexts, could refer to a personal challenge or a temporary setback in a project.
While both terms are used to describe things that stand in the way, a barrier usually has a more static and formidable implication, often needing a significant effort to overcome or dismantle. An obstacle, while still a hindrance, might be more transient and can often be maneuvered around with creativity and persistence.
Comparison Chart
Definition
A structure or factor preventing access or movement
Something that impedes progress or achievement
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Permanence
Typically more static or permanent
Often more transient or temporary
Intentionality
Often intentionally placed
Can be both intentional or accidental
Scope
More specific in context
Broader in usage
Implication
More formidable or restrictive
Can often be maneuvered around
Compare with Definitions
Barrier
A rule or restriction that limits access.
Strict regulations serve as a barrier to new businesses.
Obstacle
A difficulty or hindrance in achieving a goal.
Lack of funding is a major obstacle for many startups.
Barrier
A defense against external threats.
The immune system acts as a barrier against diseases.
Obstacle
Something that stands in the way and must be gotten around.
The boulder was an obstacle in the hiking path.
Barrier
A physical structure preventing entry or movement.
The great wall was a barrier against invasions.
Obstacle
A barrier or hindrance preventing forward movement.
The fallen tree served as an obstacle for vehicles.
Barrier
A factor that prevents or restricts progress.
Language differences can be a significant barrier in communication.
Obstacle
A challenge or problem that must be overcome.
Personal doubts can be a significant obstacle to success.
Barrier
A fence or other obstacle that prevents movement or access
The mountain barrier between Norway and Sweden
Obstacle
An object or situation that impedes progress.
Unexpected weather conditions presented an obstacle to our plans.
Barrier
A material formation or structure, such as a mountain range or wall, that prevents passage or access.
Obstacle
An obstacle (also called a barrier, impediment, or stumbling block) is an object, thing, action or situation that causes an obstruction. Different types of obstacles include physical, economic, biopsychosocial, cultural, political, technological and military.
Barrier
Something immaterial that obstructs or impedes
Lack of education can be a barrier to success.
Obstacle
A thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress
The major obstacle to achieving that goal is money
Barrier
(Physiology) A membrane, tissue, or mechanism that blocks the passage of certain substances.
Obstacle
Something that stands in the way of or holds up progress
The road crew removed the obstacle of the fallen tree limb. We had to overcome many obstacles to put on this show.
Barrier
(Ecology) A physical or biological factor that limits the migration, interbreeding, or free movement of individuals or populations.
Obstacle
Something that impedes, stands in the way of, or holds up progress, either physically or figuratively
A big obstacle to understanding the manual was that it had been poorly translated from the Japanese.
Barrier
A movable gate that keeps racehorses in line before the start of a race.
Obstacle
That which stands in the way, or opposes; anything that hinders progress; a hindrance; an obstruction, physical or moral.
If all obstacles were cut away.And that my path were even to the crown.
Barrier
Often barriers The palisades or fences enclosing the lists of a medieval tournament.
Obstacle
Something immaterial that stands in the way and must be circumvented or surmounted;
Lack of immagination is an obstacle to one's advancement
The poverty of a district is an obstacle to good education
The filibuster was a major obstruction to the success of their plan
Barrier
(Geology) An ice barrier.
Obstacle
An obstruction that stands in the way (and must be removed or surmounted or circumvented)
Barrier
A structure that bars passage.
The bus went through a railway barrier and was hit by a train.
The bomber had passed through one checkpoint before blowing himself up at a second barrier.
Barrier
An obstacle or impediment.
Even a small fee can be a barrier for some students.
Barrier
A boundary or limit.
Few marathon runners break the three-hour time barrier.
Barrier
(grammar) A node (in government and binding theory) said to intervene between other nodes A and B if it is a potential governor for B, c-commands B, and does not c-command A.
Barrier
(physiology) A separation between two areas of the body where specialized cells allow the entry of certain substances but prevent the entry of others.
Barrier
(historical) The lists in a tournament.
Barrier
A martial exercise of the 15th and 16th centuries.
Barrier
(transitive) To block or obstruct with a barrier.
Barrier
A carpentry obstruction, stockade, or other obstacle made in a passage in order to stop an enemy.
Barrier
A fortress or fortified town, on the frontier of a country, commanding an avenue of approach.
Barrier
A fence or railing to mark the limits of a place, or to keep back a crowd.
No sooner were the barriers opened, than he paced into the lists.
Barrier
Any obstruction; anything which hinders approach or attack.
Barrier
Any limit or boundary; a line of separation.
'Twixt that [instinct] and reason, what a nice barrier!
Barrier
A structure or object that impedes free movement
Barrier
Any condition that makes it difficult to make progress or to achieve an objective;
Intolerance is a barrier to understanding
Barrier
Anything serving to maintain separation by obstructing vision or access
Barrier
Something that separates or holds apart.
The mountain range acted as a natural barrier between the two countries.
Common Curiosities
Are all Obstacles negative?
Not always. Some obstacles can lead to growth or alternative solutions.
Which is more permanent, a Barrier or an Obstacle?
Barriers typically have a more permanent implication than obstacles.
Why are the terms Barrier and Obstacle sometimes used interchangeably?
Both refer to hindrances, but their nuances differ based on context and permanence.
How can one overcome a Barrier?
By understanding its root cause, seeking alternatives, or dismantling it.
Are Obstacles always unintentional?
No, some obstacles might be placed intentionally to challenge or test.
Can a Barrier also be an Obstacle?
Yes, a barrier can serve as an obstacle, but not all obstacles are barriers.
Is a Barrier always physical?
No, barriers can be intangible, like language or cultural differences.
Do barriers always restrict?
Primarily yes, barriers are meant to restrict or prevent some form of access or movement.
Can an emotional setback be termed as an Obstacle?
Yes, emotional setbacks can serve as obstacles to personal growth or achievement.
How do Barrier and Obstacle differ in usage?
A barrier restricts movement or access, while an obstacle impedes progress or achievement.
Which term is more formidable?
Barriers are typically more formidable or restrictive than obstacles.
Which term is broader in scope?
"Obstacle" has a broader usage, encompassing various impediments, while "barrier" is more specific.
How does recognizing Obstacles help in planning?
Recognizing obstacles allows for better preparation and finding ways to overcome or bypass them.
Is a locked door an Obstacle or a Barrier?
It can be both; it acts as a barrier to prevent entry and an obstacle that one must get around.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
