language barrier

American  

[lang-gwij bar-ee-er] / ˈlæŋ gwɪdʒ ˌbær i ər /

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.

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Etymology

Origin of language barrier

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Wright told jurors: "It's a matter for you to consider... whether this was a product of distress on his part, a language barrier, or an unintended indication of his attitude towards Miguel."

From BBC

"Cultures are different, not to mention the language barrier," the mayor said, urging "mutual support and consideration".

From Barron's

Customers complain of language barriers and agents with inscrutable accents.

From The Wall Street Journal

Each character seems to understand the others dimly, as through a language barrier; each vibrates at their own frequency.

From Los Angeles Times

"There were delays, confusion and a language barrier at every turn," she added.

From BBC