Thwart: meaning, definitions and examples

It is often used to describe the action of preventing someone's plans or efforts from coming to fruition.

• The hero managed to thwart the villain's evil plan.
• Her attempts to thwart my progress were unsuccessful.

This word is used to describe causing delay or difficulty in the progress of something. It doesn't necessarily imply malicious intent.

• Strong winds hindered the flight's schedule.
• His lack of experience may hinder his career growth.

Obstruct is often used in situations where something is physically or metaphorically blocking a path or progress.

• Fallen trees obstructed the road after the storm.
• His attempt to obstruct the investigation was futile.

This term is commonly used in more formal contexts to indicate slowing down the progress of something, often due to obstacles.

• The construction work will impede traffic throughout the day.
• Her injury could impede her performance in the race.

This word has a strong negative connotation and is used when someone deliberately tries to destroy or damage something.

• The spy tried to sabotage the mission.
• There were accusations that the candidate sabotaged his opponent's campaign.

Use when describing an intentional action that prevents someone from achieving a goal. Has a slightly negative or adversarial tone.

• The police thwarted the robbery attempt.
• Her plans to travel were thwarted by the sudden storm.

Refers to something that is in the way of progress, often requiring effort to be overcome. Used in both literal and figurative senses, typically neutral or mildly negative.

• They had to overcome many obstacles to reach their destination.
• Fear of failure can be a major obstacle in achieving success.

Describes something that makes it difficult to achieve something, but doesn’t necessarily stop it entirely. Has a more indirect or minor negative tone compared to ‘block’ or ‘barrier’.

• The heavy traffic was a hindrance to their progress.
• His lack of experience was a hindrance in the job interview.

Refers to a physical or metaphorical divider that prevents progress or communication. Can be used in various contexts including physical, social, or psychological.

• The language barrier made communication difficult.
• They faced many barriers to entry in that market.

Often used to describe something that physically or metaphorically gets in the way, stopping movement or progress. Neutral tone.

• A fallen tree blocked the road.
• She had a mental block during the exam.