Phrasal verbs "block up" vs "clog up"

Differences between block up and clog up

Block up usually means to completely obstruct a passage or opening, while clog up generally means to partially obstruct a passage or opening.

Meanings and Definitions: block up vs clog up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Block up

  • 1Fill a space so that nothing can pass.

    The pipe's BLOCKED UP and no water gets through.

Clog up

  • 1Block, slow movement right down.

    The traffic's so bad the roads get CLOGGED UP at rush hour.

Usage Examples: block up, clog up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

block up

Example

We need to block up the hole in the wall.

Example

He blocks up the entrance to keep the cold air out.

clog up

Example

Leaves often clog up the gutters in the fall.

Example

The sink clogs up whenever we wash too many dishes at once.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Block up

To block or close off a passage or opening, making it difficult or impossible to pass through.

Example

The fallen tree obstructed the road, causing a traffic jam.

To close or block a passage or opening completely, preventing any access or escape.

Example

The police sealed off the area to investigate the crime scene.

To close or block a passage or opening, cutting off the flow of something such as water or electricity.

Example

He shut off the water supply to fix the leaky faucet.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clog up

jam up

To become stuck or blocked, causing a delay or obstruction.

Example

The printer jammed up because of the paper misalignment.

choke

To obstruct or block a passage or opening, preventing the normal flow of air, water, or other substances.

Example

The drain was choked with hair and soap scum.

back up

To cause a blockage or obstruction by filling up a passage or opening.

Example

The heavy rain backed up the sewer system, causing flooding in the streets.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “block”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in block up vs clog up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: block up or clog up?

Both block up and clog up are commonly used in daily conversation. However, clog up is more frequently used in informal contexts, while block up is used in both formal and informal settings.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of block up and clog up

Block up is more formal than clog up. It is often used in academic or technical contexts. On the other hand, clog up is an informal phrase that is suitable for everyday conversations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of block up and clog up

The tone of block up and clog up can differ based on context. Block up often carries a serious or urgent tone when referring to obstructions that need to be cleared, while clog up typically has a more casual and less urgent tone, especially when referring to minor obstructions.

block up & clog up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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