Obstructionist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obstructionist

[əbˈstrʌkʃ(ə)nɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

politics

A person who deliberately delays or prevents progress, especially in a political context.

Synonyms

blocker, hindrance, obstacle, obstructor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obstructionist	This word is used to describe a person who deliberately delays or prevents progress, often in a political or organizational setting. It has a negative connotation. The senator was labeled an obstructionist for constantly opposing new policies. The team's progress was halted by an obstructionist member who disagreed with every proposal.
obstructor	This word also refers to a person or thing that obstructs progress, similar to 'obstructionist'. It carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation and is less commonly used. The new policy faced several obstructors within the organization. Security checks acted as obstructors to the quick flow of visitors.
blocker	This term can refer to someone or something that physically or metaphorically blocks progress. It is often used in sports, software development, or general discussions about progress. The defender acted as a blocker, preventing the opposing team from scoring. We need to identify and resolve any blockers in our project timeline.
hindrance	This word refers to something that makes progress more difficult but does not completely stop it. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Her lack of experience was a hindrance to the team's progress. The heavy rain became a hindrance to their travel plans.
obstacle	This term is used to describe something that stands in the way of achieving a goal or completing a task. It can be both literal and figurative. The fallen tree was an obstacle in their path. Financial difficulties are a common obstacle for startups.

Examples of usage

The obstructionist tactics of the opposition party led to the failure of the proposed legislation.
The senator was labeled as an obstructionist for continuously blocking the bill from being passed.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

Someone who obstructs or hinders a process or action.

Synonyms

interferer, saboteur, troublemaker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obstructionist	A person who deliberately delays or prevents progress, especially in a legislative context. This term is often used in political or bureaucratic settings. The senator was labeled an obstructionist for continually blocking the passage of the bill
saboteur	A person who deliberately destroys, damages, or obstructs something, particularly for political or strategic purposes. This term is often used in contexts involving espionage or industrial disruption. The factory was shut down after a saboteur damaged the main production line
interferer	Someone who meddles in others' affairs without invitation, often causing inconvenience or problems. This term is generally negative and can apply to various situations. She was seen as an interferer because she always gave unsolicited advice regarding their personal matters
troublemaker	Someone who habitually causes trouble, often by inciting others or creating conflict. This term is commonly used in social or workplace settings and has a negative connotation. The class labeled him a troublemaker because he often disrupted lessons and incited his classmates

Examples of usage

The obstructionist refused to cooperate with the investigation.
The construction was delayed due to the actions of an obstructionist.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Political History

In the U.S. Senate, obstructionists often use tactics like filibustering to delay or prevent votes on legislation.
The term became more recognized during the civil rights movement when some politicians opposed integration and reforms.

Communication

Obstructionist tactics can include spreading misinformation to confuse the public about important issues.
Debate can be stifled when one side employs obstructionism, making it hard to reach agreements.

Legal Context

In legal settings, obstructionist behavior can involve delaying court proceedings or denying access to information.
Jurors and witnesses may face obstructionist tactics that make it difficult for them to provide truthful testimony.

Economics

Obstructionism can impact economic growth, as policies designed to benefit the public may be stalled or rejected.
Efforts to regulate specific industries can face obstructionist challenges that prevent proper oversight.

Social Movements

Obstructionists are often found in debates regarding social change, where they resist reforms aimed at promoting equality or justice.
Grassroots movements sometimes face obstructionist actions that aim to maintain the status quo and hinder progress.

Origin of 'obstructionist'

The term 'obstructionist' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'obstruction', which dates back to the 17th century. It has been commonly used in political contexts to describe individuals or groups that impede progress or hinder the fulfillment of certain goals. The concept of obstructionism has been observed in various historical events where opposing parties or individuals intentionally delayed or blocked actions or decisions for their own agenda.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,106, 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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35103 steeplechase
35104 aeronaut
35105 detoxifying
35106 obstructionist
35107 incarcerate
35108 pugilist
35109 jettisoning
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