Obstructing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actively preventing someone or something from moving forward, typically in an intentional or forceful manner.

• The protesters were obstructing the entrance to the building
• The heavy furniture is obstructing the hallway

Usually means to stop something from moving or functioning. Can be used in a wide range of contexts, from physical barriers to hindering progress.

• The fallen tree blocked the road
• He blocked her attempt to take the last piece of cake

Often means to make it difficult for something to happen, generally implies a mild or moderate level of restriction.

• Bad weather hindered the rescue efforts
• His sprained ankle hindered his performance in the race

Used to suggest a more serious or formal hindrance, suggesting significant delay or prevention of progress.

• The new regulations could impede economic growth
• Poor infrastructure impedes rural development

Implies causing difficulty or delay in progress, often in a less direct way compared to 'obstruct' or 'block'.

• The thick fog hampered our navigation
• Her tight schedule hampered her ability to complete the project on time

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.

• The fallen tree was obstructing the road after the storm.
• The company was accused of obstructing the investigation.

Often used when something is slowing down progress or making it more difficult to achieve a goal, without completely stopping the effort.

• Heavy rainfall can hinder construction work.
• Distractions can hinder your ability to concentrate.

Used to describe preventing someone from doing something they planned or intended, often implying an element of active opposition. Has a negative connotation.

• The hero's efforts were thwarted by the villain.
• Their plan to escape was thwarted by bad weather.

Generally used to describe making a task or action more difficult or less effective, but not necessarily stopping it completely.

• Bad weather can hamper rescue efforts.
• Travel restrictions may hamper the ability of tourists to visit the country.

Similar to 'hinder' but slightly stronger, often used in more formal or technical contexts to mean slowing progress or movement.

• The new regulations may impede business operations.
• Traffic accidents impede the flow of vehicles.