Roadblock Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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roadblock
[ˈrəʊdblɒk ]
Definition
traffic control
A roadblock is a barrier set up by law enforcement or other authorities to control or block traffic flow. It is often used for safety reasons, to prevent access to a certain area, or to catch suspects.
Synonyms
barrier, checkpoint, obstruction.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| roadblock |
When referring to a physical or metaphorical hindrance that completely stops progress. Often used in everyday conversations or business contexts.
|
| barrier |
For situations involving obstacles that restrict or limit access, movement, or progress. This can be physical, like a fence, or abstract, like language barriers.
|
| obstruction |
Refers to something that blocks or gets in the way, often used in legal, medical, or technical contexts. It can imply a deliberate or accidental hindrance.
|
| checkpoint |
Used when talking about a designated spot for inspection, usually by authorities, or a progress marker in a structured process.
|
Examples of usage
- The police set up a roadblock to catch the bank robbers.
- There was a roadblock on the highway due to a car accident.
- Drivers had to detour around the roadblock.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law Enforcement
- Police use roadblocks during emergencies or to check for safety, like searching for drunk drivers or controlling traffic.
- They can also be used in criminal investigations to catch suspects trying to escape.
Civil Engineering
- Roadblocks can be temporary, like those seen during construction, or permanent, such as gates on private roads.
- Engineers design roadblocks to ensure safety, especially at construction sites or accident areas.
Figurative Use
- In discussions about personal goals, a 'roadblock' might refer to challenges or obstacles that make it hard to achieve something.
- People often say 'mental roadblocks' when they feel stuck and can't think of new ideas.
Pop Culture
- In movies and books, protagonists often encounter roadblocks on their journeys, symbolizing challenges they must overcome.
- Video games frequently feature roadblocks as obstacles players must navigate to progress in the storyline.
Origin of 'roadblock'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'roadblock' comes from 'road' and 'block', meaning something that blocks the way on a road.
- The first uses of 'roadblock' date back to the early 20th century, when it was used in both military and civilian contexts.
The term 'roadblock' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'road' and 'block'. Roadblocks have been used throughout history for various purposes, from military operations to traffic control. The concept of blocking a road to control movement dates back centuries, but the modern use of roadblocks for law enforcement and safety purposes became more prevalent in the 20th century.