obstruct Definition
- 1to block or get in the way of something so that it cannot continue or be successful
- 2to prevent someone from doing something
Using obstruct: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obstruct" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The fallen tree obstructed the road.
Example
The construction work is obstructing the entrance to the building.
Example
He was charged with obstructing justice.
Example
The government is accused of obstructing the investigation.
obstruct Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using obstruct
put up an obstruction
to create a barrier or obstacle to prevent something from happening
Example
The company put up an obstruction to the proposed merger.
to eliminate a barrier or obstacle that is preventing something from happening
Example
The city council voted to remove the obstruction and widen the road.
throw an obstruction in someone's way
to create a problem or obstacle for someone that makes it difficult for them to achieve their goals
Example
He threw an obstruction in her way by refusing to sign the contract.
Phrases with obstruct
a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue
Example
His doctor diagnosed him with obstructive sleep apnea and recommended a CPAP machine.
the crime of interfering with the administration of justice, such as by tampering with evidence or lying to investigators
Example
The prosecutor charged him with obstruction of justice for lying to the grand jury.
obstructed view
a view that is partially or completely blocked by an object or obstacle
Example
The seats in the back have an obstructed view of the stage.
Origins of obstruct
from Latin 'ob-' meaning 'against' + 'struere' meaning 'to build'
Summary: obstruct in Brief
The verb 'obstruct' [uhb-struhkt] means to block or hinder something from continuing or being successful, or to prevent someone from doing something. Examples include physical barriers like a fallen tree obstructing the road, or legal barriers like obstructing justice. Idioms include 'put up an obstruction,' 'remove an obstruction,' and 'throw an obstruction in someone's way.'
