Roadblock: meaning, definitions and examples

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roadblock

 

[ ˈrəʊdblɒk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
roadblock

When referring to a physical or metaphorical hindrance that completely stops progress. Often used in everyday conversations or business contexts.

  • We hit a roadblock in our project when the main server went down.
  • The fallen tree created a roadblock on the highway.
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.

  • The language barrier made it difficult for them to communicate.
  • The construction workers set up barriers to keep pedestrians safe.
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.

  • There's an obstruction in the patient's airway that needs immediate attention.
  • The politician was charged with obstruction of justice.
checkpoint

Used when talking about a designated spot for inspection, usually by authorities, or a progress marker in a structured process.

  • We had to stop at the checkpoint before entering the restricted area.
  • The project's first checkpoint is scheduled for next Monday.

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

Translations of the word "roadblock" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bloqueio na estrada

🇮🇳 सड़क पर बाधा

🇩🇪 Straßensperre

🇮🇩 penghalang jalan

🇺🇦 перешкода на дорозі

🇵🇱 blokada drogowa

🇯🇵 道路障害

🇫🇷 barrage routier

🇪🇸 barrera en la carretera

🇹🇷 yol engeli

🇰🇷 도로 장애물

🇸🇦 حاجز على الطريق

🇨🇿 dopravní překážka

🇸🇰 cestná prekážka

🇨🇳 路障

🇸🇮 cestna ovira

🇮🇸 vegatálmi

🇰🇿 жол кедергісі

🇬🇪 გზის დაბრკოლება

🇦🇿 yol maneəsi

🇲🇽 bloqueo vial

Etymology

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.

See also: road, roadster.