block the plans

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "block the plans" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to preventing or obstructing a set of plans or arrangements from being carried out. Example: "The unexpected storm could block the plans for the outdoor event this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The Florida Police Benevolent Association, which represents the workers, sued the state to block the plans.

The New York Times

Paddy Ashdown told the BBC that he expected Labour to block the plans.

The Guardian

That is a foretaste of how the Krupp Foundation could possibly block the plans of ThyssenKrupp managers, and a majority of its shareholders, in future.

The Economist

Tim Farron, the Lib Dem leader, said he thought there would be a concerted cross-party effort to block the plans in both parliamentary chambers.

The Guardian

One senior figure at the then Department for Education and Skills, told Kelley that bishops in the House of Lords and ministers would block the plans.

The Guardian

Labor has moved to block the plans in parliament, but will need the support of some crossbench senators and the Greens who, right now, are undecided.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Naema herself would block the plan.

The New Yorker

North Miami officials were trying to block the plan.

Harvard University

Britain started legal action to try to block the plan.

The New York Times

But he criticized those who tried to block the plan.

The New York Times

The agency asks state regulators to block the plan.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "block the plans", ensure that the context clearly indicates whose plans are being blocked and by whom. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "block the plans" when the action only delays or slightly alters the plans. The phrase implies a significant obstruction or complete prevention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "block the plans" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the action of preventing or obstructing a course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Wiki

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "block the plans" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of preventing a set of proposals or arrangements from being carried out. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usability in written English.

Its usage is most prevalent in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for general discussions. Alternative phrases like "obstruct the plans" or "thwart the plans" can be used for variety, although they may carry slightly different connotations. When using the phrase, ensure clarity about whose plans are being blocked to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstruct the plans

Replaces "block" with a synonym emphasizing the act of hindering progress.

thwart the plans

Uses a stronger verb to suggest a more forceful prevention of the plans.

impede the plans

Similar to "obstruct", but with a connotation of making the plans more difficult to execute.

derail the plans

Implies causing the plans to go off track or fail completely.

prevent the plans

A more direct and general way of saying that the plans will not be allowed to happen.

hinder the plans

Similar to "impede", suggesting a slowing down or obstruction of the plans' progress.

put a stop to the plans

Indicates a decisive action to end the plans.

sabotage the plans

Suggests a deliberate act of undermining or destroying the plans.

nullify the plans

Uses a more formal and legalistic term to mean rendering the plans invalid.

counter the plans

Focuses on opposing the plans with alternative actions or strategies.

FAQs

What does "block the plans" mean?

The phrase "block the plans" means to prevent a set of intended actions or arrangements from being carried out. It suggests obstruction or hindrance.

How can I use "block the plans" in a sentence?

You can use "block the plans" in a sentence like this: "The opposition party is trying to "thwart the plans" to reform the healthcare system."

What are some alternatives to "block the plans"?

Some alternatives to "block the plans" include "obstruct the plans", "thwart the plans", or "impede the plans".

Is it better to say "block the plans" or "blocking the plans"?

The choice between "block the plans" and "blocking the plans" depends on the sentence structure. "Block the plans" is an infinitive phrase, while "blocking the plans" is a gerund phrase. For example: "They tried to block the plans." versus "Their strategy involved blocking the plans."