block off

USAGE SUMMARY

"block off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase whenever you're referring to something being closed off temporarily, or prevented from being accessed. For example: "The authorities blocked off the street in order to conduct an investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Don't block off the … " The signs overlap.

The New Yorker

They block off freeways so his motorcade can zoom by.

The Economist

He said: "They may block off the roads.

The Guardian

Will he try to knock Pup's block off?

The Guardian - Sport

They had managed to block off nearly every intersection in the main business district.

The New Yorker

In Bombay if you can block off people for a while you are relieved".

The New York Times

The city government has encouraged such barrios seguros, permitting residents to block off their streets.

The Economist

The authorities' attempts to block off the political center of the city have provoked public ire.

The New York Times

It's not like you can block off a railway station and bring it to a standstill.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

An original primer design using properties of LNA allows to block off-target amplification.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

3) Block-off time on your calendar.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When scheduling events, use "block off" to clearly indicate time reserved for a specific purpose: "I need to block off three hours for the meeting."

Common error

Avoid using "block off" when describing permanent closures. Instead, use phrases like "permanently closed" or "sealed off" to indicate a lasting change.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "block off" is as a phrasal verb. It is used both transitively (to block off a road) and intransitively (to block off time). Ludwig confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "block off" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe both physical obstruction and the scheduling of time. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in News & Media and Wiki sources. When writing, ensure you're not using it for permanent closures. Alternatives like "set aside" or "close off" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context you wish to convey. Remember, "block off" effectively communicates temporary restrictions or dedicated time slots.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close off

Focuses more on physically closing or sealing something.

shut off

Emphasizes stopping the flow or access to something.

cordon off

Implies a more formal or official closure, often by authorities.

set aside

Specifically refers to reserving time or resources.

make time for

Specifically addresses the act of creating availability in a schedule.

reserve

Similar to 'set aside', but can also apply to physical spaces.

allocate time to

A more formal way of saying 'make time for'.

book

Specifically refers to scheduling or reserving something, like time.

obstruct

Highlights the action of hindering or preventing movement or access.

impede

A more formal term for hindering or obstructing.

FAQs

How can I use "block off" in a sentence?

You can use "block off" to describe obstructing something, like "They used barriers to block off the road", or to indicate setting aside time, such as "I need to block off some time in my calendar for the project".

What can I say instead of "block off" when referring to time?

Alternatives include "set aside", "reserve", or "allocate", which all refer to reserving time for a specific purpose.

Is it correct to say "block off from" instead of "block off"?

While not inherently incorrect, "block off" is typically used without "from". Using "block off from" can sound awkward. It's usually better to say "block [something] off" or "block [something] from [somewhere/someone]".

What is the difference between "block off" and "close off"?

"Block off" often implies a temporary obstruction or reservation, while "close off" can suggest a more permanent closure or sealing. The best alternative will depend on the context.