impede

/im'pi:d/

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Word: Impede

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To impede means to block or make it difficult for something to happen. It can refer to stopping the progress of a person or a project by creating obstacles or difficulties.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "impede" when you want to describe a situation where something is being slowed down or stopped due to obstacles.
• It is often followed by a noun that describes what is being obstructed (e.g., progress, movement, development).

Example Sentence:

• "Heavy traffic can impede our journey to the airport."
• "She is impeding the progress of our project with her constant questions."

Advanced Usage:

In more formal or literary contexts, "impede" can be used to describe complex situations, such as legal or social processes. - "The new regulations may impede economic growth in the region."

Word Variants:

• Impediment (noun): A barrier or hindrance that obstructs progress.
  • Example: "His lack of experience was an impediment to his promotion."
• Impeded (past participle): Used to describe something that has already been obstructed.
  • Example: "The construction work impeded the flow of traffic."

Different Meanings:

The primary meaning of "impede" is related to obstruction. While it does not have multiple meanings, it can be used in various contexts (physical, social, or metaphorical).

Synonyms:

• Hinder
• Obstruct
• Delay
• Block
• Deter

Idioms & Phrasal Verbs:

While "impede" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to it, you can use phrases that convey a similar meaning: - "Get in the way": "His doubts got in the way of the team's success." - "Stand in the way": "Don't stand in the way of progress."

Summary:

"Impede" is a verb that describes the act of creating obstacles that slow down or stop progress. It’s useful in both everyday and formal contexts.

Academic

Verb

1. block passage through
   • obstruct the path
2. be a hindrance or obstacle to
   • She is impeding the progress of our project

Synonyms

• obstruct
• obturate
• occlude
• jam
• block
• close up
• hinder