obstruction
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
something that blocks a road, pipe, or path so that nothing can get through.
a physical object that blocks or impedes passage through a conduit, thoroughfare, or anatomical passage.
Simple“The plumber found a small plastic toy causing an obstruction in the kitchen pipe.”
In context“Emergency crews worked through the night to remove the fallen tree, which had created a significant obstruction on the main highway.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the act of intentionally stopping someone or something from making progress.
the deliberate or accidental act of hindering or preventing progress or movement.
Simple“The lawyer was accused of obstruction of justice for hiding important documents.”
In context“The protesters were arrested for the obstruction of a public thoroughfare after they refused to move from the bridge.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
an illegal move where a player blocks an opponent who does not have the ball.
an infringement of the rules in which a player uses their body to impede the progress of an opponent.
Simple“The referee blew the whistle and called obstruction against the defender.”
In context“The striker was awarded a free kick after the defender was penalised for obstruction in the penalty area.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun when referring to the foul itself.
“An expert might suggest treating nasal obstruction or allergies, if this is what is causing snoring, or wearing a custom mouthguard to gently push the lower jaw forward and keep the airway open.”
From Latin obstructio (“hindrance”), from obstruo (“build against, block, stop”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.