block the path of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "block the path of" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where something or someone is obstructing a route or preventing progress. Example: "The fallen tree blocked the path of the hikers." Alternative expressions include "obstruct the way of" and "hinder the progress of."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Cows block the path of SUVs.

The Guardian - Travel

Sahoul joined an impromptu squadron of beach staff forming a line to block the path of the gunman.

The Guardian

Many chanted in protest on Monday against the decision and tried to block the path of those allowed to cross the border.

The Guardian

This has led to the current dry spell as long lasting high-pressure systems block the path of the lows that would normally bring autumn rain.

The Guardian

And with only one year left on his contract, Cameron would not block the path of Austin Jackson, perhaps the top position player in the Yankees' farm system.

The New York Times - Sports

Now Macedonia, the first country on the route, has started to block the path of anyone not from Syria, Iraq or Afghanistan.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Pickup trucks carrying huge spools of electric cables — used to block the paths of these murderous cars — drove by.

The New York Times

I feel for these poor saps, many of whom are out-of-work actors or students trying to fund their way through university, forced to wear fluorescent tabards and block the paths of irritable passers-by, often in horizontal rain.

Independent

Two men were removed by police after blocking the path of the van.

The Guardian

It blocked the path of migratory fish, such as river herring.

The New York Times

Later came Tiananmen Square: the picture of a man blocking the path of a column of tanks in China, in 1989.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "block the path of", ensure the subject doing the blocking is clearly defined and the object being blocked is also explicit for clarity. For example, "The dam blocked the path of the migrating salmon."

Common error

Avoid using "block the path of" when a more nuanced verb like "delay" or "redirect" is more appropriate. "Block" implies a complete obstruction, so use it when that is the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "block the path of" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "block" is the verb and "the path of" acts as the prepositional phrase functioning as an object. It describes the action of obstructing or preventing movement or progress. Ludwig AI confirms its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

20%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "block the path of" is a grammatically sound and acceptably common way to describe the obstruction of a route or the prevention of progress. Ludwig AI analysis reveals it is most frequently used in News & Media, with a neutral register making it suitable for various contexts. Remember to use it when you want to convey a clear and complete obstruction, and be mindful of defining the blocker and the blocked entity. Consider alternatives like "impede the progress of" for formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstruct the route of

Replaces "path" with "route", emphasizing the physical way or course.

impede the progress of

Focuses on slowing down or hindering advancement rather than physical blockage.

hinder the trajectory of

More suitable when referring to the course or direction something is taking, especially in a metaphorical sense.

stop the advance of

Highlights the prevention of forward movement, often in a military or competitive context.

prevent the passage of

Emphasizes preventing something from passing through a particular area or point.

bar the way to

A more figurative expression indicating the creation of an obstacle.

obstruct the access to

Focuses on preventing entry or approach to something.

hold up the movement of

Highlights the delay or temporary stoppage of something moving.

interfere with the course of

Emphasizes disruption or meddling with the natural flow or direction of something.

stall the momentum of

Implies a sudden stop or slowing down of progress or force.

FAQs

How can I use "block the path of" in a sentence?

You can use "block the path of" to describe a physical obstruction, such as "The fallen tree blocked the path of the hikers", or in a more abstract sense, such as "Regulations blocked the path of the company's expansion".

What is a more formal alternative to "block the path of"?

A more formal alternative would be "impede the progress of", which emphasizes the slowing down or hindering of advancement.

Which is correct, "block the path of" or "block the way of"?

Both "block the path of" and "block the way of" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. The choice often depends on stylistic preference and context.

What's the difference between "block the path of" and "obstruct the path of"?

"Block the path of" and "obstruct the path of" are very similar. "Obstruct" might suggest a partial blockage or making the path difficult, while "block" implies a more complete prevention of passage.