Bottleneck: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in business or traffic to refer to a point of congestion or anything that causes delays or slowdowns due to limited capacity or inefficiency. It emphasizes the cause of the problem more than its effect.

• The supply chain experienced a bottleneck, delaying the delivery of goods.
• Construction on the highway created a major bottleneck during rush hour.

Commonly used in the context of heavy traffic or crowded conditions, both physically (like traffic or nasal congestion) and metaphorically (like network congestion in computing). Generally describes the result rather than the cause of the problem.

• Traffic congestion in the city center has gotten worse over the years.
• She took medicine to relieve her nasal congestion.

Used when something is physically obstructed or blocked, preventing flow or movement. It can refer to both physical and metaphorical situations.

• There was a blockage in the sewer line that needed immediate attention.
• Mental blockages can sometimes prevent people from achieving their goals.

Used to describe a limitation or rule that keeps something from happening or limits how it happens. It often has a regulatory or controlling connotation.

• New restrictions on water usage were implemented during the drought.
• Visa restrictions can make international travel difficult.

Used to describe a point of congestion or blockage in a process or system that slows down overall progress.

• The narrow bridge is a major bottleneck during rush hour
• We need to find the bottleneck in our production line to improve efficiency

Often used in more formal contexts to indicate something that obstructs or delays progress. Also used in medical or technical contexts, like speech impediments.

• The language barrier was an impediment to effective communication
• He overcame his speech impediment through years of therapy

Refers to something that makes it difficult to do something or achieve a goal, often carrying a slightly less severe or formal tone.

• His lack of experience was a hindrance in securing the job
• The rain was a big hindrance to our outdoor plans

A general term for anything that blocks one’s way or prevents progress, suitable for both literal and metaphorical uses.

• The fallen tree was an obstacle on the hiking trail
• She faced many obstacles on her way to becoming a doctor

Used to describe a specific point in a process where progress is blocked or slowed down due to limited capacity or a specific issue.

• The single printer in the office is often a bottleneck for productivity
• Traffic was heavy due to a bottleneck at the bridge construction site

Used when limiting or controlling the extent, quantity, or range of something.

• The new law will restrict the use of certain chemicals
• The diet restricts the intake of sugary foods

Used in more formal situations to describe something that slows down, prevents, or obstructs progress.

• Heavy snowfall can impede travel
• Bureaucratic red tape often impedes swift decision-making

Used when something or someone makes it more difficult to achieve something else or progress.

• Lack of funding can hinder a project's progress
• Noise in the library can hinder students from concentrating on their studies