Obstructing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
obstructing
[ษbหstrสktษชล ]
Definitions
in a legal context
To obstruct something means to block it, making it difficult for it to continue or succeed. It can refer to physically blocking a path or hindering progress.
Synonyms
block, hamper, hinder, impede.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| obstructing |
Used to describe actively preventing someone or something from moving forward, typically in an intentional or forceful manner.
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| block |
Usually means to stop something from moving or functioning. Can be used in a wide range of contexts, from physical barriers to hindering progress.
|
| hinder |
Often means to make it difficult for something to happen, generally implies a mild or moderate level of restriction.
|
| impede |
Used to suggest a more serious or formal hindrance, suggesting significant delay or prevention of progress.
|
| hamper |
Implies causing difficulty or delay in progress, often in a less direct way compared to 'obstruct' or 'block'.
|
Examples of usage
- He was accused of obstructing justice by tampering with evidence.
- The fallen tree was obstructing the road, causing a traffic jam.
in a general context
To obstruct can also mean to prevent something from happening or progressing smoothly. It often implies intentional interference.
Synonyms
hamper, hinder, impede, thwart.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| obstructing |
Used when someone or something is blocking the way or making it hard to pass or move forward, often in a physical sense or legal context.
|
| hinder |
Often used when something is slowing down progress or making it more difficult to achieve a goal, without completely stopping the effort.
|
| thwart |
Used to describe preventing someone from doing something they planned or intended, often implying an element of active opposition. Has a negative connotation.
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| hamper |
Generally used to describe making a task or action more difficult or less effective, but not necessarily stopping it completely.
|
| impede |
Similar to 'hinder' but slightly stronger, often used in more formal or technical contexts to mean slowing progress or movement.
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Examples of usage
- The heavy fog was obstructing our view of the mountains.
- She deliberately obstructed his attempts to contact her.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'obstructing'
The word 'obstructing' originates from the Latin word 'obstruere', which means 'to block' or 'to hinder'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'obstructing' has been used in various contexts, especially in legal and general settings, to describe actions that impede progress or hinder movement.
See also: obstruct, obstructed, obstruction, obstructionist, obstructions, obstructive, obstructor, unobstructed.