obstruir (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Obstruir is a verb in the infinitive form.

Phonetic Transcription

/obsˈtɾu.iɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To obstruct
• To hinder
• To impede

Meaning and Use in Spanish

Obstruir means to hinder, block, or make something difficult to achieve or accomplish. It is often used in both legal and medical contexts, though it can appear in general conversation as well. The frequency of use is moderate; it tends to be more common in written contexts, such as academic papers or legal documents, rather than spoken language.

Example Sentences

1. La construcción del nuevo puente obstruiría el paso del río.

2. The construction of the new bridge would obstruct the flow of the river.

3. El humo de la chimenea puede obstruir la visión de los conductores.

4. The smoke from the chimney can obstruct the vision of drivers.

5. Es importante no obstruir el trabajo de los demás.

6. It is important not to obstruct the work of others.

Idiomatic Expressions

Although "obstruir" does not have a vast array of idiomatic expressions, some phrases convey the essence of obstruction or hindrance:

1. Obstruir el camino.
2. To obstruct the way.

3. Example: Los árboles caídos obstruyen el camino hacia la montaña.

   • Fallen trees obstruct the way to the mountain.

4. Obstruir el progreso.

5. To obstruct progress.

6. Example: Las malas decisiones pueden obstruir el progreso de un proyecto.

   • Poor decisions can obstruct the progress of a project.

7. Obstruir el desarrollo.

8. To obstruct development.
9. Example: Las regulaciones estrictas pueden obstruir el desarrollo económico.
   • Strict regulations may obstruct economic development.

Etymology

The word obstruir comes from the Latin "obstruere," which is composed of "ob-" meaning "against" and "struere" meaning "to build." Thus, it literally conveys the meaning of "building against," which aligns with the idea of hindrance or obstruction.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Impedir - Obstaculizar - Interrumpir

Antonyms: - Facilitar - Favorecer - Promover