language barrier

noun

: a difficulty for people communicating because they speak different languages

Examples of language barrier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One of the agents is speaking in Spanish with her as well, showing that the language barrier was not what caused the breaking and entering into their car. Arick Wierson, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025 Several Germans have been detained by U.S. customs and immigration authorities, one of whom incorrectly answered a question due to a language barrier and another who was carrying tattoo equipment. Avery Lotz, Axios, 3 Apr. 2025 But breaking into the city’s competitive restaurant and bar scene proved to be tough, especially with a language barrier. Kristin Tablang, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025 Like many children in a new school, Juni was still adjusting—and the language barrier added an extra layer of difficulty. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for language barrier

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Language barrier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/language%20barrier. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!