obstruction
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for obstruction, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Something that blocks a path, passage, or process.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use obstruction
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin obstructio, "a blocking, hindrance", from obstruere — see "obstruct".
Full origin of obstruction →Frequently asked questions
What does “obstruction” mean?
The word “obstruction” means something that blocks a path, passage, or process. In plain terms, something (or some act) that blocks the way.
How do you pronounce “obstruction”?
“Obstruction” is pronounced uhb-STRUHK-shuhn (/əbˈstɹʌk.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “obstruction” in a sentence?
Here is “obstruction” used in a sentence: “Engineers cleared the obstruction from the drainage pipe.”
What is another word for “obstruction”?
Words with a similar meaning to “obstruction” include block, hindrance, impedance, roadblock and stop.
What part of speech is “obstruction”?
“Obstruction” is a noun.
Where does the word “obstruction” come from?
The word “obstruction” comes from Latin. From Latin obstructio, "a blocking, hindrance", from obstruere — see "obstruct".
Is “obstruction” a common word?
“Obstruction” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “obstruction” have?
“Obstruction” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something that blocks a path, passage, or process.
What is the difference between obstruction and blockage?
Obstruction and blockage both describe something that blocks a path, passage, or process, and the words are largely interchangeable in everyday use. Obstruction can additionally carry a more formal or legal sense, describing the deliberate act of hindering a process, such as 'obstruction of justice.'
Is obstruction always physical?
No, obstruction can be physical, such as debris blocking a pipe or road, or it can be non-physical, such as deliberately hindering a legal, administrative, or bureaucratic process. Both senses share the core idea of something preventing normal progress.