Obstructionism: meaning, definitions and examples

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obstructionism

[əbˈstrʌkʃənɪzəm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

political

The practice of deliberately delaying or blocking progress, especially in a political context.

Synonyms

hindrance, obstruction, obstructionist behavior.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obstructionism	Used when talking about deliberate and systematic attempts to block a process or progress, often in political or bureaucratic settings. The senator was accused of obstructionism when he refused to support any of the proposed bills.
obstruction	Used to describe something that physically blocks a path or makes movement difficult, as well as bureaucratic obstacles. The fallen tree created an obstruction on the road. The new regulations were seen as an obstruction to business development.
obstructionist behavior	Specifically refers to actions or attitudes of a person or group intentionally designed to block or delay decisions, often in politics or organizational settings. His obstructionist behavior during the meetings was frustrating for everyone involved.
hindrance	Used to describe something or someone that slows down progress or makes an action less effective, but not necessarily intentional. The heavy traffic was a major hindrance to our timely arrival. She viewed her lack of experience as a hindrance in getting the job.

Examples of usage

The opposition party was accused of obstructionism in order to prevent the passing of the new law.
His constant obstructionism only served to hinder the development of the project.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

legal

The act or practice of deliberately impeding justice or the judicial process.

Synonyms

delay tactics, interference, obstruction of justice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obstructionism	Identical to the first entry for obstructionism as it is the same word used again. Refer to the context and examples provided initially. The senator's obstructionism is preventing the bill from being passed. There was significant obstructionism in the committee, slowing down the decision-making process.
interference	Use in scenarios where someone intervenes in a way that hinders or disrupts an activity, often with negative connotations. His interference in the project caused confusion among the team members. The referee warned the player against interference in the match.
obstruction of justice	Use in legal contexts where actions are taken to hinder the detection or investigation of a crime, typically viewed very negatively. The suspect was charged with obstruction of justice for destroying evidence. Lying to the police can lead to charges of obstruction of justice.
delay tactics	Use in situations where there are strategic efforts to postpone or slow down an event, often in negotiations or games. The lawyer used delay tactics to buy more time for their client. The team employed delay tactics to maintain their lead until the game ended.

Examples of usage

The lawyer's constant obstructionism in the courtroom led to several delays in the trial.
The judge warned the defendant about the consequences of continued obstructionism.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term derives from the Latin word 'obstructio', which means 'blocking' or 'hindering'.
Obstructionism became popular in American politics during the 20th century, particularly noted during the civil rights movement.
The tactic has a long history, used by various groups worldwide to resist change or alternative solutions.

Politics

Obstructionism can manifest in legislative settings, where members may delay votes or stymie discussion deliberately.
In the U.S., it is often associated with strategic filibusters, where lawmakers extend debate to prevent legislation from passing.
Political parties may resort to obstructionist tactics during opposing parties' governance to weaken their effectiveness.

Cultural Impact

The concept has influenced various forms of media, showcasing characters who embody the trait in films and books.
Artists and activists use the term to critique systemic barriers to social justice, often highlighting the struggle against obstructionism.
Public opinion on obstructionism often fluctuates based on one's political ideology or association with certain movements.

Psychology

Psychologically, individuals who frequently engage in obstructionism may do so out of fear of change or loss of control.
People tend to perceive obstructionist behavior as defensive, stemming from a lack of trust in new methods or ideas.
Understanding the motivations behind obstructionism can help in conflict resolution and fostering dialogue.

Global Perspectives

Different cultures view obstructionism variably; what may be seen as resistance in one society can be viewed as preservation in another.
In places with authoritarian regimes, obstructionism can serve as a form of civil disobedience or protest against oppressive systems.
Internationally, the term is often linked to negotiations, where one side may obstruct discussions to secure favorable outcomes.

Translations

Translations of the word "obstructionism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 obstrucionismo

🇮🇳 अवरोधवाद

🇩🇪 Obstruktionismus

🇮🇩 obstruksionisme

🇺🇦 обструкціонізм

🇵🇱 obstrukcjonizm

🇯🇵 妨害主義 (ぼうがいしゅぎ)

🇫🇷 obstructionnisme

🇪🇸 obstruccionismo

🇹🇷 obstrüksiyonizm

🇰🇷 의사 방해주의 (uisa banghaejuui)

🇸🇦 إعاقة

🇨🇿 obstrukcionismus

🇸🇰 obštrukcionizmus

🇨🇳 阻挠主义 (zǔnáo zhǔyì)

🇸🇮 obstrukcionizem

🇮🇸 þrjóski

🇰🇿 кедергілік

🇬🇪 ობსტრუქციონიზმი

🇦🇿 maneçilik

🇲🇽 obstruccionismo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,732, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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37729 pinstripe
37730 execrate
37731 intercut
37732 obstructionism
37733 gulag
37734 bestride
37735 blinker
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