ENGLISH
REFERENCE

obstruction

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US //əbˈstɹəkʃən// UK //ɒbstɹˈʌkʃən// ob·struc·tion

n. something that blocks a path, road, or opening. You use this word when an object or person stops movement or progress.

n. an object, person, or condition that blocks a passage, opening, or process. Often used in legal, medical, and traffic contexts.


SIMPLE

The fallen tree is a major obstruction on the road.

CONTEXTUAL

Heavy traffic caused a long obstruction on the highway this morning.

COMPLEX

The sudden obstruction of the artery required immediate medical intervention to restore blood flow and prevent tissue damage.

Synonyms
Origin

From Latin obstructio (“hindrance”), from obstruo (“build against, block, stop”).

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