language barrier

[ lang-gwij bar-ee-er ]

noun

1. difficulty in communicating due to the lack of a shared language:

   International adoption is not easy, especially when there is a language barrier.

Word History and Origins

Origin of language barrier¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Still, some experts believe the obvious language barrier and unfamiliarity with Russian systems would complicate any fighting roles, suggesting instead that Pyongyang’s troops would be tapped for their engineering and construction capabilities.

From BBC

Some families do not sign up for free school meals they are entitled to because of language barriers, not understanding the eligibility criteria or because of a stigma around sharing financial information.

From BBC

Apart from the language barrier, the North Korean army has no recent combat experiences, they said.

From BBC

Apart from the language barrier, the North Korean army has no recent experience of combat operations, they said.

From BBC

“It was one of the few situations where I felt the language barrier. It was always so stressful trying to express exactly what I wanted to say.”

From Los Angeles Times