Block: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when referring to a solid piece of material, often rectangular, used in building or construction.

• The children used wooden blocks to build a tower
• The mason placed the concrete blocks to form the wall

Best for indicating a thick, solid piece of something, often irregular in shape.

• She cut a chunk of cheese for the platter
• A large chunk of ice broke off from the glacier

General term used for any part of something, often referring to a smaller section of a whole.

• Could I have a piece of cake? She picked up the piece of broken glass

Appropriate when talking about a small, rectangular block used in constructing buildings.

• The house was made entirely of red bricks
• He threw a brick through the window

Commonly used to describe a large, flat, and thick piece of material, typically stone or concrete.

• The construction workers lifted the heavy slabs of concrete
• She placed a slab of marble on the countertop

Typically used to describe a physical object that stops movement or progress, often temporarily or partially.

• There's a block on the road because of construction.
• She put up emotional blocks after the breakup.

Used to describe a physical or metaphorical divider that prevents or restricts entry or progress.

• The language barrier made communication difficult.
• They set up barriers to control the crowd.

Generally refers to something that blocks one's path or makes it difficult to achieve a goal, often used in both literal and figurative contexts.

• She faced many obstacles in her journey to success.
• The fallen tree was an obstacle in the road.

Usually refers to something that makes progress or achievement difficult without completely stopping it.

• His lack of experience was a hindrance to getting the job.
• The constant interruptions were a hindrance to her work.

Often used in formal contexts to describe a physical or figurative obstruction that hinders progress.

• A speech impediment made it hard for him to communicate.
• Bureaucratic red tape can be a real impediment to progress.

Used when something is physically or figuratively preventing movement or progress.

• The road was blocked by fallen trees
• His negative comments blocked her creativity

Involves blocking a path, view, or progress often with a negative connotation.

• A parked car obstructed the driveway
• Her refusal to cooperate obstructed the investigation

Often implies a formal or strong prohibition. Can be used both literally and figuratively.

• They were barred from entering the building
• His past mistakes barred him from getting the job

Refers to creating difficulties that result in delays or obstruction of progress.

• The heavy rain hindered the construction work
• Her lack of confidence hindered her progress

Used when progress or movement is slowed down or prevented, often in a formal context.

• The new regulations could impede economic growth
• His injury impeded his ability to run