What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hampering
Example
The heavy rain was hampering our efforts to finish the construction on time. [hampering: verb]
Example
The lack of funding is hampering the company's ability to expand. [hampering: present participle]
obstruct
Example
The fallen tree obstructed the road, causing a traffic jam. [obstructed: past tense]
Example
The government's policies are obstructing progress towards a more sustainable future. [obstructing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hampering is more common in everyday language than obstructing. Hampering is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while obstructing is more formal and specific.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hampering and obstruct?
Obstructing is a more formal word than hampering. It is often used in legal or technical contexts where precision and accuracy are important. Hampering is less formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.