What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hindering
Example
The bad weather is hindering our ability to finish the construction on time. [hindering: present participle]
Example
His constant interruptions were hindering the team's productivity. [hindering: gerund]
obstructive
Example
The roadblock was obstructive and prevented us from reaching our destination. [obstructive: adjective]
Example
Her stubbornness was obstructive to finding a solution to the problem. [obstructive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hindering is more commonly used in everyday language than obstructive. Obstructive is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hindering and obstructive?
Obstructive is more formal than hindering and is often used in legal or official contexts. Hindering is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.