obstruction - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obstruction Word Meanings
- the act of blocking or hindering
- something that obstructs progress
- a barrier or obstacle
obstruction Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obstruction Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əbˈstrʌkʃən/
US
/əbˈstrʌkʃən/
obstruction Word Etymology
ob- = against + struct = to build; Origin from Latin 'obstructio' → Old French 'obstruction' → English. Imagine a dam building up against the flow of a river, creating a blockage that prevents movement.
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
Obstruction is a noun describing something that blocks or hinders progress. It can be a physical barrier—like a fallen tree, a roadblock, or a construction site—or a more abstract hindrance, such as bureaucratic red tape, delays, or confusing rules. An obstruction can be intentional or accidental, and it often requires effort or planning to overcome. You will see obstruction in traffic, in conversations when someone stalls a project, or in legal contexts such as obstruction of justice. The term sits with barrier, hindrance, and blockage, but it emphasizes the process of blocking as well as the thing that blocks.
Usage Reminders
- distinguish physical obstruction from abstract hindrance
- obstruction can be countable or uncountable depending on context
- use with 'to obstruct' for the verb form
- common collocations: obstruction of traffic, obstruction of justice
- avoid mixing with 'blockage' when you mean a process, not an object
- check whether you mean a concrete object or an ongoing impediment
Common Misconceptions
- Obstruction always refers to a physical blockage, not a hindrance.
- Obstruction and obstruction of justice are interchangeable in everyday use.
- You should always use obstruction for any obstacle, even abstract ones.
- Obstruction can only be plural (obstructions) when talking about multiple objects.
- Obstruction is the same as blockage and should replace it in all contexts.
Thinking Differences
English often uses obstruction to cover both physical barriers and hindrances to progress; learners should note that obstruction stresses the blocking process as well as the object. Typical mistakes include treating it like a simple synonym of blockage or misapplying it in legal phrases.
Learning Tips
- Identify whether obstruction refers to a physical barrier or a hindrance to progress.
- Pair the noun with the verb obstruct to form common phrases.
- Learn fixed legal phrases like obstruction of justice.
- Differentiate between obstruction and blockage by considering if the focus is on the object or the act.
- Use synonyms (barrier, hindrance, obstacle) where appropriate to avoid repetition.
- Pay attention to countability: both countable and uncountable uses exist.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'obstruction'?
A.Building
B.Ocean
C.Pathway
D.Barrier
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'obstruction' correctly?
A.They went to the park.
B.The sun was shining brightly.
C.He bought a new car.
D.She found an obstruction in her room.
Step 3: Similar Words
Select the synonym of 'obstruction'.
A.Assistance
B.Solution
C.Hinderance
D.Opening
Step 4: Opposite Words
Select the opposite of 'obstruction'.
A.Barrier
B.Halt
C.Assistance
D.Blockage
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you encounter an obstruction?
A.Reading a book
B.Driving on a road with a closed lane
C.Cooking in the kitchen
D.Sleeping in bed
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