Blocking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blocking

[ˈblɒkɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

internet

The action or process of blocking access to a particular website or online content.

Synonyms

banning, censoring, filtering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blocking

Often used when a specific user or entity is prevented from accessing certain content or services. It is common in social media platforms and tech settings.

  • She had to resort to blocking his calls after he kept harassing her.
  • The website was blocking users from specific countries.
banning

Used to describe a more permanent and formal action where someone is officially forbidden from engaging in certain activities or using certain services.

  • He was banned from the club after the fight.
  • The government is considering banning single-use plastics.
filtering

Typically used in digital and online contexts to describe the process of sorting and displaying content based on specific criteria. It is less about restriction and more about organizing information.

  • The email program does a good job of filtering out spam messages.
  • You can filter search results by date.
censoring

Commonly used when content is altered or removed because it is deemed inappropriate, offensive, or harmful. It is often associated with media, literature, and online platforms.

  • The movie was censored to remove explicit scenes.
  • The editor faced criticism for censoring the author's controversial opinions.

Examples of usage

  • The blocking of social media sites in some countries is a violation of freedom of speech.
  • Many schools use blocking software to prevent students from accessing inappropriate content online.
Context #2 | Verb

technology

To restrict or stop the passage of something, especially light, sound, or an electronic signal.

Synonyms

hinder, impede, obstruct.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
blocking

Used in scenarios where something is physically stopping movement or progress. Commonly used in sports, traffic, or any physical obstruction.

  • The fallen tree is blocking the road.
  • The defender was blocking the striker in the game.

Examples of usage

  • The curtains were blocking out the sunlight from entering the room.
  • The firewall is blocking incoming data packets from unknown sources.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Theater

  • In plays, blocking refers to the planned movements and positions of actors on stage, helping tell the story.
  • Directors carefully design blocking to create visual interest and emphasize emotion in performances.

Psychology

  • Blocking in psychology can refer to a defense mechanism where a person prevents painful thoughts from entering their consciousness.
  • In cognitive therapy, patients learn to recognize their blocking tendencies to better cope with emotions.

Sports

  • In sports, blocking is a technique used by players to stop their opponents from scoring, vital in games like football and basketball.
  • Effective blocking can change the outcome of a game, showcasing teamwork and strategy.

Technology

  • In cybersecurity, blocking refers to preventing malicious software from accessing or affecting computer systems.
  • Firewalls and antivirus programs are common tools that execute blocking to protect networks from attacks.

Communication

  • Blocking can occur in conversations when someone interrupts communication flow, leading to misunderstandings.
  • In social media, users can block others to prevent interaction, promoting a safer online environment.

Origin of 'blocking'

The word 'blocking' originated from the Middle English word 'blocken', which meant 'to obstruct'. It has been used in various contexts over the centuries, from physical barriers to metaphorical obstacles. In the modern digital age, 'blocking' has become a common term associated with internet censorship and technological restrictions.


See also: block, blockade, blockage, blockbuster, blocked, blocker, blockhead, blocklist, blocks, blocky, unblock, unblocked.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,574 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.