prep
Uncommon
barring
BAH-rihng
Barring (prep) means Unless something happens; except for. Example: “Barring any last-minute delays, the flight should land on time.”
prep
1
Unless something happens; except for.
"Barring any sudden storms, the plane should arrive on time."
"Barring any further red tape, we will finally be able to open the restaurant."
"Barring any last-minute delays, the flight should land on time."
"Barring injury, she's expected to start the final."
How to use barring
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsed to mean "unless" or "except for" when introducing a possible exception.
Memory tip
Barring usually opens a sentence and is followed by a noun phrase, not a full clause: "Barring rain, we'll have the picnic outside."
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like barring.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- barrings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ any last-minute delays, the flight should land on time.
Rhymes for barring
See all rhymes for barring →Frequently asked questions
What does “barring” mean?
The word “barring” means unless something happens; except for. In plain terms, used to mean "unless" or "except for" when introducing a possible exception.
How do you pronounce “barring”?
“Barring” is pronounced BAH-rihng (/ˈbɑːɹɪŋ(ɡ)/ in IPA).
How do you use “barring” in a sentence?
Here is “barring” used in a sentence: “Barring any last-minute delays, the flight should land on time.”
What part of speech is “barring”?
“Barring” is a preposition.
Is “barring” a common word?
“Barring” is an uncommon word in modern English.
