blocked step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "blocked step" is not a standard expression in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts related to processes or workflows where a step is impeded or not progressing. Example: "The project is currently at a blocked step due to unforeseen technical issues."

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Skimming air-water flow properties were investigated in a stepped chute configured with triangular steps, chamfered steps, and partially blocked step cavities.

International Journal of Multiphase Flow

Because transcription is a multistep process, experiments were conducted in which fidaxomicin was added at different stages of transcriptional initiation to identify the blocked step.

Clinical Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In order to guarantee that no surface was left unfunctionalized, a blocking step was needed.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The following morning, slides were rinsed in ddH2O 3X before proceeding to the blocking step described above.

Plosone

Biotin blocking step was repeated once followed by washes with 1× TBS.

Plosone

After a blocking step with 10% FCS in PBS, wells were incubated with sera (1∶2 dilution) overnight.

Plosone

Between KV10.1 and NPC staining, we introduced a blocking step with 10% NGS in HMK for 30 minutes.

Plosone

Following the blocking step, the wells were washed three times with PBS containing 0.01% (v/v) Tween-20 (Sigma).

Plosone

Additional washes in PBS preceded a one hour blocking step in 10% normal horse serum and 0.3% Triton X-100.

Plosone

After a blocking step for 1 hour at room temperature, blots were incubated for 2 hours at room temperature with the primary Ab in the blocking buffer.

Plosone

The membrane was stripped at 37°C for 20 min. A wash step followed and the reprobing procedure started at the blocking step.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "blocked step", ensure the context clearly indicates the process or sequence being affected. Specify the cause of the blockage if possible to provide a complete understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "blocked step" in contexts where a simpler term like "delay" or "interruption" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound overly technical or unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blocked step" functions as a noun phrase, typically describing a specific stage or action within a process that is currently impeded or unable to progress. This usage is supported by the examples provided by Ludwig, which highlight contexts in scientific research.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "blocked step" is a grammatically sound but relatively uncommon term, primarily used within scientific contexts to describe an impeded stage in a process. Ludwig's analysis reveals that while its usage is correct, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in less technical settings. Given its specificity, understanding the context is crucial for its effective use. Despite Ludwig AI suggesting that the phrase may cause confusion, its specific meaning is often well-defined within the scientific domain.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impeded stage

Emphasizes a hindrance affecting a specific stage of progress.

obstructed phase

Highlights the presence of an obstacle affecting the phase.

stalled phase

Focuses on the idea of a standstill in a particular phase.

interrupted process

Highlights the fact that the process has been stopped.

halted procedure

Suggests a complete stop to the procedure.

delayed action

Emphasizes the postponement of action.

hindered progression

Focuses on the obstruction of continuous movement or advancement.

restricted advancement

Highlights that the movement forward is being limited.

bottleneck in the process

Implies a narrow point restricting flow or progress.

critical path delay

Refers specifically to a delay affecting the overall project timeline.

FAQs

What does "blocked step" mean in the context of a scientific process?

In a scientific process, a "blocked step" refers to a stage that is unable to proceed due to a specific obstacle or impediment. This could be due to technical difficulties, unexpected results, or missing components.

Are there alternative phrases I can use instead of "blocked step"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "impeded stage", "stalled phase", or "interrupted process".

Is the term "blocked step" grammatically correct?

Yes, "blocked step" is grammatically correct, although it is not a particularly common or widely recognized phrase outside of specific technical or scientific contexts.

How formal is the phrase "blocked step"?

The phrase "blocked step" leans towards a more formal register, particularly when used in scientific or technical writing. In general conversations, simpler terms might be preferred.