Ob (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "ob" functions as a prefix in English, derived from Latin.

Phonetic Transcription

/ɑb/

Meaning and Usage

"Ob" is a prefix meaning "against," "in the way of," or "toward." It is commonly used to form words that denote opposition or absence, often in medical or scientific contexts. The use of "ob" is more prevalent in written language, particularly in academic and professional settings, rather than in casual conversation.

Example Sentences

1. Obstructing a roadway can lead to fines.
   (Obstrucción de una carretera puede llevar a multas.)

2. Many medications are designed to obliterate chronic pain.
   (Muchos medicamentos están diseñados para obliterar el dolor crónico.)

3. The study aims to observe the effects of climate change on ecosystems.
   (El estudio tiene como objetivo observar los efectos del cambio climático en los ecosistemas.)

Idiomatic Expressions

While "ob" itself is not a common standalone word in idiomatic expressions, it appears in several phrases and terms that incorporate its meaning of opposition or negation. Here are some examples:

1. Obstruct justice: To impede the legal process.
   (Obstruir la justicia: Impedir el proceso legal.)

2. Oblivion: The state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around one.
   (Oblivion: El estado de no ser consciente o no estar al tanto de lo que está sucediendo a su alrededor.)

3. Obscure: Not discovered or known about; uncertain.
   (Obscuro: No descubierto o no conocido; incierto.)

4. Obvious choice: A choice that is clear and unambiguous.
   (Opción obvia: Una elección que es clara y sin ambigüedades.)

5. Observer effect: A phenomenon whereby the act of observing a situation influences that situation.
   (Efecto observador: Un fenómeno en el que el acto de observar una situación influye en esa situación.)

Etymology

The prefix "ob" comes from the Latin "ob," which means "against" or "in the way of." This prefix has been integrated into many English words through Latin and Old French influences.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: contra-, anti-, against
Antonyms: pro-, for

This detailed analysis provides insight into the prefix "ob," its uses, origins, and related expressions in the English language.