What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
occlusion
Example
The dentist checked my occlusion to ensure my bite was aligned. [occlusion: noun]
Example
The patient suffered from an occlusion in his coronary artery. [occlusion: noun]
Example
The tree's branches caused an occlusion of the view of the lake. [occlusion: noun]
obstruction
Example
The road was closed due to an obstruction caused by a fallen tree. [obstruction: noun]
Example
The construction site caused an obstruction on the sidewalk, forcing pedestrians to walk on the street. [obstruction: noun]
Example
The sink drain had an obstruction that prevented the water from flowing. [obstruction: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Obstruction is more commonly used than occlusion in everyday language. Obstruction is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while occlusion is more specific and often used in medical or dental contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between occlusion and obstruction?
Occlusion is typically associated with a more technical or clinical tone, while obstruction can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
