verb · C1

Obstruct

uhb-STRUKT/əbˈstrʌkt/

To obstruct is to block a path, view, or process: obstruct an exit, obstruct an inquiry. Block is everyday; hinder is milder; impede is a close cousin. Obstruction is the noun (also a sports foul). Do not write obstruct for a polite disagreement in a meeting.

Meaning

To block a path, view, or process, or to prevent progress on purpose.

Examples

“A locked fire door obstructed the only marked exit.”
“A locked fire door obstructed the only marked exit on the plan.”
“Block a road; obstruct often adds blame or formality (obstructing justice). Hinder is slower-down, not always a blockage. Noun: obstruction.”

Good to know

Block / get in the way. Everyday: block. Milder: hinder. Noun: obstruction. A disagreement is not automatically obstruction.

Near in meaning

block

New