impede

Everyday

(formal) To impede someone or something is to get in the way and slow it down or make it harder to happen or move. tree →

In the lessons

In formal writing and exams, «impede» means hinder: snow impedes traffic, noise impedes learning. In science, friction impedes movement, and in electricity, resistance impedes current. In everyday talk you would say «get in the way of» or «hold up».

Examples

• Fallen trees impeded the rescue workers. tree →
• Heavy snow impeded traffic all morning. tree →
• Talking in class impedes learning. tree →
• Friction impedes the movement of the box. tree →
• Nothing should impede the fire exit. tree →
• Bad weather impeded the search for the boat. tree →
• In the van, on all fours, is Great Big Little Panther, a brave of so many scalps that in his present position they somewhat impede his progress. tree →

Note

Formal word; plain English: block, slow down, hold up. Noun: impediment («a speech impediment» = a stammer or difficulty speaking). Regular verb: impeded.