Obstructor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obstructor

[əbˈstrʌktər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in a legal context

A person or thing that obstructs or hinders progress or action, especially in a legal proceeding.

Synonyms

hindrance, impediment, obstructionist.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obstructor	Use 'obstructor' when specifically talking about a person or thing that actively blocks or stops progress. The opposition party acts as an obstructor in the legislative process. He was seen as an obstructor of innovation within the company.
obstructionist	Use 'obstructionist' to describe a person who deliberately delays or prevents progress, often in a political or bureaucratic context. This term carries a negative connotation. The senator was labeled an obstructionist for blocking the bill. The CEO accused the board of being obstructionists against new policies.
hindrance	Use 'hindrance' to describe something that makes it difficult to accomplish a task, though not necessarily completely stopping it. This term is often used to describe smaller or less significant barriers. Her lack of experience was a hindrance to her career advancement. The heavy snowfall was a hindrance to our travel plans.
impediment	Use 'impediment' to refer to an obstacle that significantly delays or makes it difficult to proceed, similar to 'hindrance' but often more formal or severe. His speech impediment made public speaking challenging. The lack of funding served as a serious impediment to the project's progress.

Examples of usage

The defense lawyer accused the witness of being an obstructor of justice.
The obstructor tried to delay the trial by filing multiple motions.
The judge warned the obstructor that further obstruction would not be tolerated.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general context

Something that blocks or gets in the way of something else.

Synonyms

barrier, blocker, obstacle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obstructor	Use this in formal situations where you need to describe someone or something that deliberately gets in the way of progress. It often has a negative connotation. The new regulations are seen as an obstructor to innovation and growth
blocker	Appropriate in casual or technical contexts, particularly in sports or project management, to describe something that prevents progress. We need to identify and remove any blockers in our software development process
barrier	Useful in both formal and informal settings to describe something that stands in the way of achieving something. It can be physical or metaphorical. Language differences can be a barrier to effective communication
obstacle	Suitable for both formal and informal settings to describe anything that makes it difficult to achieve a goal. It can be used metaphorically or literally. Despite numerous obstacles, she achieved her dream of becoming a doctor

Examples of usage

The fallen tree was an obstructor on the path.
The obstructor in the drain caused the water to overflow.
The obstructor in the road caused a traffic jam.

Translations

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

Origin of 'obstructor'

The word 'obstructor' originates from the verb 'obstruct', which comes from the Latin word 'obstruere', meaning 'to build against, block, or stop up'. The concept of obstruction has been present in legal and general contexts for centuries, with various forms of obstacles hindering progress or action.