Impede: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something is making progress difficult or slow, often in a technical or formal context.

• Bad weather can impede the construction work.
• The new regulations may impede innovation in some industries.

Often used in contexts where something is providing resistance or creating difficulties, more general than 'impede'.

• Lack of funding can hinder research progress.
• Injuries hindered him throughout the season.

Commonly used when something physically blocks a path or view, or metaphorically when something is intentionally getting in the way.

• The large sign obstructed our view of the stage.
• Efforts to obstruct the investigation are illegal.

Best used when something is causing inconvenience or making it difficult for someone to accomplish a task.

• The heavy snow hampered rescue efforts.
• Her tight schedule hampered her ability to finish the project.

Used when something is causing a postponement or slowing down a process, generally temporary or expected.

• The flight was delayed due to fog.
• We had to delay the meeting until next week.

Appropriate when something is preventing passage or access entirely. Can be used literally or metaphorically.

• A fallen tree blocked the road.
• The pop-up blocker is blocking all advertisements.

When something or someone causes a process or movement to slow down or stop completely.

• The heavy traffic will impede our progress to the airport.
• Her lack of experience may impede her success in the new role.

When something or someone creates obstacles that make progress slow or difficult.

• The new regulations may hinder industry growth.
• Being shy can hinder your social interactions.

When something or someone blocks a path or visibility, making it difficult or impossible to pass or see.

• A fallen tree obstructed the road.
• The tall building obstructs our view of the sea.

When something or someone makes it difficult to move freely or to get things done efficiently.

• The poor weather hampered the rescue operation.
• His injuries are likely to hamper his performance.

When something or someone causes an event or action to happen later than expected or planned.

• The flight was delayed due to bad weather.
• We need to delay the meeting until John arrives.

When something or someone restricts or prevents a process, action, or function.

• Fear of failure can inhibit people from taking risks.
• Some factors in the environment can inhibit plant growth.