barrage - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
barrage Word Meanings
- a concentrated artillery bombardment
- an overwhelming quantity
- to obstruct or flood with questions or requests
barrage Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
barrage Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈbær.ɑːʒ/
US
/ˈbæ.rɑːʒ/
barrage Word Etymology
barrage = barrer (to bar) + rage (fury); Origin: French → English. Imagine a fierce storm of projectiles falling like heavy rain, blocking all paths.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Barrage as a noun refers to a concentrated artillery bombardment in warfare, but it is also used more broadly to describe an overwhelming quantity of something arriving at once. You might speak of a barrage of questions, requests, or emails that come in rapidly and relentlessly. As a verb, to barrage means to flood or obstruct with questions or demands, to press someone with a flood of input. The word evokes force and intensity, like a storm of projectiles or information that makes forward progress difficult. Etymologically it comes from French barrer, 'to bar', combined with rage, and entered English to convey this sense of relentless, blocking force.
Usage Reminders
- Use barrage to describe a rapid, overwhelming influx that blocks progress.
- As a noun it names the event; as a verb it describes flooding with questions or requests.
- Common collocations include 'a barrage of questions' or 'a barrage of emails'.
- In nonmilitary contexts it often conveys intensity but not violence.
- Be mindful of tone: it sounds strong, so choose milder synonyms when appropriate.
- Remember it is both a noun and a verb; check the object that follows with appropriate prepositions.
Common Misconceptions
- Believing barrage only means a military attack.
- Thinking it always connotes violence in everyday language.
- Confusing barrage with barricade due to similar roots.
- Using barrage for a small, gentle influx of information.
- Pronouncing it as bar-RAHZH instead of bar-RAHZH (stress on second syllable).
Thinking Differences
English often uses barrage metaphorically for a flood of input, with strong tone. Learners may confuse it with milder words like flood, deluge, or onslaught, or apply it to small, calm situations. It also pairs naturally with 'of' (a barrage of questions).
Learning Tips
- Memorize common collocations: 'barrage of questions', 'barrage of emails'.
- Practice distinguishing noun vs. verb forms with example sentences.
- Compare with related words: flood, deluge, onslaught, bombardment.
- Notice tone: barrage is strong; pick milder options for polite contexts.
- Pay attention to prepositions after 'barrage of' (of is standard).
- Pronounce with stress on the second syllable: bar-RAZH.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'barrage'?
A.A rapid and continuous outpouring of something
B.A group of animals
C.A type of cloud formation
D.A form of martial arts
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'barrage' used correctly?
A.She adopted a barrage of kittens from the shelter.
B.After the storm, there was a barrage of hail.
C.The team faced a barrage defeat in the match.
D.He gave a barrage of compliments to his boss.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'barrage'?
A.Sparse
B.Deluge
C.Trickle
D.Stream
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'barrage'?
A.Trickle
B.Scarcity
C.Drought
D.Sip
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you encounter a 'barrage'?
A.Watching a fireworks display
B.Listening to a heavy rainstorm
C.Participating in a marathon race
D.Attending a poetry reading event
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