Synonym Chooser

How does the verb obstruct contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of obstruct are block, hinder, and impede. While all these words mean "to interfere with the activity or progress of," obstruct implies interfering with something in motion or in progress by the sometimes intentional placing of obstacles in the way.

the view was obstructed by billboards

When can block be used instead of obstruct?

The meanings of block and obstruct largely overlap; however, block implies complete obstruction to passage or progress.

a landslide blocked the road

When is hinder a more appropriate choice than obstruct?

The synonyms hinder and obstruct are sometimes interchangeable, but hinder stresses causing harmful or annoying delay or interference with progress.

rain hindered the climb

When could impede be used to replace obstruct?

While in some cases nearly identical to obstruct, impede implies making forward progress difficult by clogging, hampering, or fettering.

tight clothing that impedes movement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of obstruct Some past versions of REINS explicitly exempted deregulatory actions to avoid needlessly obstructing efforts to ease regulatory burdens. James Broughel, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 The 16-year-old, whose name has not been released, is charged with second-degree obstructing governmental administration, second-degree riot and third-degree menacing. Peter D'abrosca , Alexis McAdams , Louis Casiano, FOXNews.com, 6 May 2025 Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2025 However, cameras often fail in cases where the body is obstructed by blankets or clothes, or when lighting is inadequate. Aly Fathy, The Conversation, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for obstruct
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstruct
Verb
  • On April 16, the Department of Homeland Security threatened to impede Harvard’s ability to enroll students from abroad – an unprecedented move that would devastate the campus if the White House moved forward with it.
    Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 9 May 2025
  • As previously ordered, Apple will not impede competition.
    Katcy Stephan, Variety, 1 May 2025
Verb
  • In the video, sunlight outside is blocked by a pair of curtains, but one tiny spot has streamed through—and Goose is completely fascinated by it.
    Rachael O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025
  • The opposition from Tillis, who is up for reelection next year, combined with that from all Democrats, could block Martin's nomination from getting out of committee.
    Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 8 May 2025
Verb
  • Scientists believe early exposure to this content may hinder children's understanding of consent and respect in relationships.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 2 May 2025
  • The Transport Workers Union argued the petition would hinder safety.
    Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 1 May 2025
Verb
  • This will to copy and paste the images of history in effect occludes its alien beauty and force—the simulacrum devours its source.
    Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 8 Mar. 2025
  • This will to copy and paste the images of history in effect occludes its alien beauty and force—the simulacrum devours its source.
    Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 8 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 May 2025
  • Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 17 May 2025
Verb
  • Johnson’s predecessor, Larry Robinson, resigned last year amid fallout from a fake $237 million donation scandal that embarrassed the school on the national stage.
    Garrett Shanley, Miami Herald, 17 May 2025
  • What’s made the 18th so fun this week is its ability — even for just a second — to embarrass the best golfers on the planet.
    Jordan Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 17 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Obstruct.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstruct. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on obstruct

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