a blocking issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a blocking issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as project management or software development to refer to a problem that prevents progress. Example: "We have encountered a blocking issue that needs to be resolved before we can proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A blocking issue occurs when a node cannot continue to send a flow which has been previously admitted.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

They sometimes used their influence to block issue or slow things down.

Huffington Post

Ad blocking has been a big issue for Internet users, who are fed up with slow-loading, overbearing or irrelevant ads disrupting their web browsing.

TechCrunch

Our original idea called for female rapists to eventually enter the mix, but it became a blocking, safety, and cost issue.

Vice

The locking mechanism is a blocking lock: other clients which issue commands while the server is locked will hang until the lock is released.

Harvard University

Given this reality, trying to force the issue — turn a blocking minority into a governing authority — is not just counter-constitutional in spirit but self-destructive in practice.

The New York Times

With overcrowding in our emergency departments and an access block issue, the emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) is becoming a growing concern.

Critical Care

"It is literally a block-by-block issue, especially older neighborhoods, where the neighborhood grew up much faster than the infrastructure to support it," Mr. Holloway said.

The New York Times

Filibusters are an extreme measure in which a minority of senators block an issue from being voted on.

The New York Times

The cor anglais has a repeating, insistent presence (beautifully played by Dominik Wollenweber); strings divided into several, closely pitched layers flutter like insect wings; a high wood block issues a repeated, three-note command.

The Guardian - Music

To the charge that they enabled a government whose record we reject, the Liberal Democrats would plead that they made a difference, mitigating and blocking on issues such as Europe, the environment, child benefit and human rights, without which things would have been worse.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a blocking issue", clearly define what is being blocked and the consequences of the blockage for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a blocking issue" in casual conversation; it's more suited for technical, professional, or academic settings where precision is valued. Opt for simpler alternatives like "problem" or "hiccup" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a blocking issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "blocking" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "issue". It describes a specific kind of problem that impedes progress. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, highlighting its role in identifying progress-halting problems.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a blocking issue" is a phrase used to describe a significant problem that prevents progress. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and most appropriately used in professional, scientific, or technical contexts. While considered rare based on the available examples, its function is to clearly identify and categorize an obstacle that requires resolution to allow for advancement. Related phrases like "critical obstacle" and "significant impediment" offer similar meanings. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being blocked and the consequences thereof.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical obstacle

Replaces "issue" with "obstacle", emphasizing the hindering nature of the problem; slightly stronger connotation.

a significant impediment

Uses "impediment" to highlight the obstructive nature, implying a considerable barrier.

a major hurdle

Replaces "issue" with "hurdle", suggesting a challenge that needs to be overcome.

a problematic snag

Emphasizes the unexpected and troublesome nature of the issue.

a troublesome complication

Highlights the complexity and difficulty introduced by the issue.

a key bottleneck

Focuses on the issue as a point of congestion or delay in a process.

a central constraint

Indicates a limiting factor that restricts progress.

a show-stopping problem

Emphasizes the severity of the issue, suggesting it could halt progress completely.

a fundamental obstacle

Highlights the basic, underlying nature of the obstruction.

a primary setback

Replaces "issue" with "setback", emphasizing a reversal in progress.

FAQs

How can I use "a blocking issue" in a sentence?

You can use "a blocking issue" to describe a problem that is preventing progress on a project or task. For instance, "We've identified a blocking issue that needs immediate attention."

What are some alternatives to "a blocking issue"?

Alternatives include "critical obstacle", "significant impediment", or "major hurdle". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

Is "blocking issue" formal or informal?

"Blocking issue" tends to be more formal and is commonly used in technical or professional settings. Simpler terms like "problem" or "hiccup" might be more appropriate in informal contexts.

What makes an issue a "blocking issue"?

An issue becomes a "blocking issue" when it directly prevents further progress or completion of a task or project. It's a critical problem that must be resolved before moving forward.