obstruct

Everyday

1. To block a road, path, pipe or opening so things cannot pass. tree →
2. To block a view. tree →
3. To try to stop something happening or to make it hard (obstruct the police). tree →
4. (sport) To block another player unfairly. tree →

In the lessons

In safety: do not obstruct fire exits; never obstruct an ambulance. In science: a blocked pipe or artery is obstructed. In sport: a foul for obstructing a player. Phrases: obstruct the view, obstruct traffic, obstruct justice.

Examples

• Don't leave bags where they obstruct the fire exit. tree →
• A fallen tree obstructed the road. tree →
• The tall man obstructed my view of the stage. tree →
• Food can obstruct the airway, so chew well. tree →
• He was penalised for obstructing another player. tree →
• Parked cars must not obstruct the school gate. tree →

Note

Regular verb. Noun: obstruction (something that blocks); adjective: obstructive. Similar: block, hinder. Safety: fire exits and corridors must stay clear.