hinder - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
hinder Word Meanings
- to make something difficult
- to obstruct progress
- to delay or prevent something
hinder Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
hinder Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈhɪndə/
US
/ˈhɪndər/
hinder Word Etymology
From Old English 'hindrian', meaning to hinder or obstruct; related to 'hind', meaning 'to keep back'. Visualize a large rock blocking a path, making it hard for travelers to proceed.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
To hinder is to make something more difficult or to slow the progress of a person, project, or plan. It emphasizes the obstacle rather than a complete stoppage; you might hinder progress by lack of resources, poor planning, or random delays. Hinder is transitive and commonly pairs with nouns like progress, development, plans, or advancement. It can appear in formal reports or neutral discussion about obstacles. It does not always imply complete prevention; in many cases you still expect some result, albeit delayed. If something is entirely stopped, you would more often say it prevents or stops it, or blocks it altogether.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Hinder = slow or block progress, not always stop completely.
- 2. Common collocations: hinder progress, hinder development, hinder someone from doing something.
- 3. Use passive: be hindered by [circumstance] to describe external obstacles.
- 4. Distinguish from prevent/stop, which imply a complete closure.
- 5. Prefer hinder over obstruct in formal writing when the obstacle is less than total.
- 6. Remember it needs a direct object: hinder [something].
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking hinder for completely stopping something; it often slows rather than stops.
- Using hinder with incorrect preposition when the object is a person (hinder from doing) is uncommon; more natural is hinder someone from doing something.
- Thinking hinder and obstruct are interchangeable in all contexts; obstruct is stronger and more physical.
- Confusing hinder with 'hindrance' (noun) instead of using the verb form.
- Using hinder with non-animate ideas when a more precise verb like delay or impede fits better.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English often uses hinder for partial obstruction, with strong collocations like progress or development; avoid overgeneralizing to completely blocking.
Learning Tips
- 1) Practice with common collocations: hinder progress, hinder development.
- 2) Compare with impede and obstruct to see nuance.
- 3) Use passive voice: be hindered by obstacles.
- 4) Distinguish hinder from prevent; hinder is not a guarantee of failure, just delay.
- 5) Create 3 short sentences about a project being hindered by resources, weather, or policy.
- 6) Read formal reports to see measured usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'hinder' mean?
A.Delay
B.Help
C.Assist
D.Accelerate
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'hinder' correctly?
A.The sunlight didn't hinder us from seeing clearly.
B.Eating vegetables can hinder good health.
C.Exercise can hinder weight gain.
D.The new technology will hinder communication.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'hinder'?
A.Aid
B.Facilitate
C.Block
D.Promote
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'hinder'?
A.Obstruct
B.Assist
C.Halt
D.Prevent
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'hinder'?
A.A chef preparing a delicious meal
B.A student struggling to understand a complex topic
C.A bird building a nest in a tree
D.A marathon runner finishing the race
Related Listening
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