block up

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block up

The workers block up the road with orange cones and a detour sign.

Definition

Verb: 1. To obstruct or make impassable: To completely fill or close a passage, entrance, or opening, preventing movement or access. 2. To seal or close off: To intentionally stop up a hole, path, or route.

Usage

The verb "block up" is used to describe the action of causing a complete obstruction. It often implies using a physical object or material to fill a space so that nothing can pass through. It is commonly used in contexts involving construction, maintenance, accidents, or deliberate barriers.

Examples
  • The fallen tree blocked up the narrow road completely.
  • We need to block up that old fireplace to stop the draft.
  • A major accident is blocking up all southbound lanes on the highway.
  • Leaves and debris had blocked up the drain, causing the flood.
Advanced Usage
  • "to be/get blocked up": This passive form is frequently used to describe the state of something being obstructed, often referring to bodily passages or pipes.
    • My nose is completely blocked up because of this cold.
    • The kitchen sink is blocked up again.
Variants and Related Words
  • Block (verb): A more general term for obstructing or hindering passage or progress. ("Block the door.")
  • Blockage (noun): The state of being blocked or the thing that causes the block. ("There is a blockage in the pipe.")
  • Clog (verb): To block or become blocked with an accumulation of thick, sticky matter. Often used for pipes and filters. ("Hair clogged the drain.")
Synonyms
  • Obstruct: To be in the way of or hinder.
  • Barricade: To block or defend with a barrier.
  • Choke: To block a passage, especially by compression or crowding.
  • Plug: To fill or close a hole tightly with an object.
  • Seal: To close something securely to prevent entry or escape.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Block off: To prevent access to an area by placing a barrier. This often implies a temporary or official closure.
    • The police blocked off the street after the robbery.
  • Block in: To park a vehicle so closely to another that it cannot move out.
    • Someone blocked me in; I can't get my car out of the parking space.
Related Idioms
  • "Like trying to get blood from a stone": While not directly using "block up," this idiom describes a futile effort, similar to the frustration of something being completely blocked or unyielding.
block up

The workers block up the road with orange cones and a detour sign.

Verb
  1. render unsuitable for passage
    • block the way
    • barricade the streets
    • stop the busy road

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