impassable barrier
[/ɪmˈpæsəbəl ˈbæriər/]
noun phrasepl: impassable barriers
barreira intransponível
1. A physical or metaphorical obstruction that cannot be crossed, penetrated, or overcome
The mountain range formed an impassable barrier between the two regions for centuries.
A cordilheira formava uma barreira intransponível entre as duas regiões por séculos.
2. An insurmountable obstacle that prevents progress or movement
Language differences created an impassable barrier to communication.
As diferenças linguísticas criaram uma barreira intransponível para a comunicação.
3. A fortification or defensive structure designed to prevent passage
The fortress walls served as an impassable barrier against invaders.
As muralhas da fortaleza serviam como barreira intransponível contra invasores.
This phrase is commonly used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese to describe not just physical barriers like walls or mountains, but also abstract obstacles in business, relationships, and social contexts. In Brazilian culture, the concept of 'barreira intransponível' is frequently employed in literature and journalism when discussing social divisions or geographical challenges in the Amazon region.
NYC Slang
brick wall (metaphorically, as in 'hit a brick wall')
Related Idioms & Phrases
hit a brick wall
come up against an impasse
face an insurmountable obstacle
bater de frente com uma barreira
não há volta possível
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