Impediment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ง
impediment
[ษชmหpษdษชmษnt ]
Definitions
in communication
Something that hinders or obstructs progress or movement. It can be a physical, mental, or emotional barrier.
Synonyms
barrier, hindrance, obstacle, obstruction.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impediment |
Use this word when referring to something that hinders or slows progress, often in a formal or serious context. It is frequently used in legal, medical, or official discussions.
|
| obstacle |
This word is used for something that blocks the way or makes progress difficult, often implying a need for effort to overcome. Suitable for both physical and metaphorical use.
|
| hindrance |
Typically used to describe something that makes a process more difficult but does not completely stop it. Often used in both personal and professional contexts.
|
| barrier |
This word is commonly used for physical objects or figurative challenges that prevent movement or progress. It can be used in both literal and abstract contexts.
|
| obstruction |
Typically used to describe something that blocks a path or prevents progress, often with a negative connotation. It can be used in legal and medical contexts or to discuss physical blockages.
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Examples of usage
- This technical issue is a major impediment to completing the project on time.
- His lack of confidence proved to be an impediment in his job interviews.
- Language barriers can be an impediment to effective communication.
in legal context
An obstruction that prevents a contract or agreement from being legally valid.
Synonyms
barrier, hindrance, obstacle, obstruction.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| impediment |
Use when referring to something that slows down or prevents progress, especially in a formal or technical sense.
|
| obstacle |
Useful for describing a challenge or difficulty that needs to be overcome, usually more tangible or specific than 'hindrance'.
|
| barrier |
Best used when talking about something that physically or metaphorically separates or excludes.
|
| hindrance |
Typically employed to indicate something that makes a task harder to complete, but not impossible. Often used in a slightly negative context.
|
| obstruction |
Refers to something that blocks the way or hinders physical movement or progress, often carries a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- The lack of signatures from all parties will be an impediment to the contract being enforceable.
- The unclear terms in the agreement could pose as an impediment in court.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet', characters face social and familial impediments that keep them apart.
- Many classic novels often feature protagonists overcoming various impediments, making their journeys compelling.
- In fairy tales, the hero often faces an impediment, like a dragon or a curse, that they must overcome to achieve their goal.
Psychology
- Cognitive impediments can affect how people process information or make decisions, often leading to biases.
- Anxiety can act as an impediment to effective communication, making it hard for some to express themselves.
- In therapy, identifying personal impediments is essential for developing strategies to overcome them.
Law
- In legal contexts, impediments can refer to barriers that prevent parties from accessing justice or participating fully in legal processes.
- Certain legal impediments may include age, mental competency, or specific laws that restrict actions.
- The concept of 'improper impediment' highlights barriers created by unfair practices within judicial systems.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often face impediments such as societal expectations, familial disapproval, or internal fears before achieving their goals.
- The idea of overcoming impediments is a common theme in motivational speeches and self-help books.
- Reality TV often showcases individuals overcoming personal impediments to success, resonating with audiences.
Origin of 'impediment'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'impedimentum', which means 'hindrance or obstacle'.
- It combines 'in-' which means 'not' and 'pedimentum', derived from 'pes' (foot), suggesting something that stops you from moving.
- The term has been used in English since the 14th century, initially referring to physical obstacles.
The word 'impediment' originated from the Latin word 'impedimentum', which means hindrance or obstruction. The term has been used in English since the late 16th century. Over the years, 'impediment' has evolved to represent various types of obstacles or barriers that hinder progress or movement in different contexts.