clear of blockages

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear of blockages" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something is unobstructed or free from obstacles, such as in plumbing, transportation, or communication. Example: "Before we proceed with the repairs, we need to ensure that the pipes are clear of blockages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Agency officers are checking flood defences and that rivers and streams are clear of blockages.

BBC

Dahl and her colleagues also made smaller vessels—suitable for coronary bypass from dog cells and transplanted those into five dogs, where they stayed clear of blockages for up to a year.

Science Magazine

"Officers will be monitoring forecasts and weather conditions closely, as well as checking flood defences and making sure rivers are clear of blockages which could obstruct flows and cause flooding".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The barrel, valves, valve seats and upstream inlet geometry (not shown) had to be kept clear of blockage via geometric and proximity based constraints.

Journal of Mathematics in Industry

But most importantly, the hypothetical bad behavior of another industry is not what should concern the FCC, and in fact is outside its jurisdiction; net neutrality is specifically about preventing the threat presented by broadband providers, keeping the pipe itself clear of blockage, throttling, fast lanes and so on.

TechCrunch

Stents are metal mesh devices that are used to prop open arteries after they have been cleared of blockages.

The New York Times

After arteries are cleared of blockage, they can become clogged again by blood clots, scarring or new deposits of fatty substances.

The New York Times - Health

Stents are tiny mesh tubes that doctors insert to prop open arteries after clearing them of blockages.

The New York Times

On seeing this, Trico's eyes light up red and its tail crackles with electricity; a constant stream of energy is fired in the direction of the beam, and this allows for the pathway-clearing destruction of blockages, piled-up pottery just lying about the place, and ancient wooden doors.

Vice

A16 Hidden Heart Risk for Women Women are more likely than men to have a hidden type of coronary disease in which their heart muscle is starved for oxygen even though their coronary arteries look clear and free of blockages on X-rays, doctors are reporting.

The New York Times

Storm channels have been cleaned and cleared of any blockages.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical systems like pipes or roads, use "clear of blockages" to emphasize the importance of maintaining unobstructed pathways for optimal function.

Common error

Avoid using "clear of blockages" in highly abstract or metaphorical contexts where simpler terms like "unobstructed" or "free from obstacles" might be more appropriate and less literal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear of blockages" functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adjectivally to describe a state of being free from obstructions. Ludwig examples show it describing rivers, arteries, or pipes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clear of blockages" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe something free from obstructions. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While not exceedingly common, it is a reliable way to convey the state of being unobstructed, whether referring to rivers, arteries, or other pathways. Alternatives include "free from obstructions" and "unobstructed". When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it remains appropriate and avoid overusing it in overly abstract scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

free from obstructions

Focuses more on the state of being without obstructions, rather than the act of clearing.

free of obstacles

Uses a broader term, "obstacles", instead of "blockages", making it applicable to a wider range of situations.

unobstructed

A single word emphasizing the lack of obstruction.

without obstructions

Similar to "free from obstructions", but uses a slightly different prepositional structure.

free of impediments

Uses a more formal word ("impediments") for blockages, suitable for formal contexts.

unimpeded

A single word meaning not impeded; a more concise alternative.

free-flowing

Suggests smooth and continuous movement, often used for liquids or traffic.

unclogged

Specifically refers to the removal of a blockage; more active than "clear of blockages".

open

A simpler, more general term indicating the absence of obstacles.

passable

Describes a route or channel that can be traversed without difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "clear of blockages" in a sentence?

You can use "clear of blockages" to describe a physical space or system that is free from obstructions. For example, "The plumber ensured the pipes were clear of blockages before finishing the job."

What can I say instead of "clear of blockages"?

You can use alternatives like "free from obstructions", "unobstructed", or "free of obstacles" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "clear of blockages" or "free of blockages"?

Both "clear of blockages" and "free of blockages" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice often depends on stylistic preference or the specific context.

In what situations is it best to use "clear of blockages"?

It's best to use "clear of blockages" when referring to a situation where the removal or absence of a physical obstruction is important, such as in plumbing, road maintenance, or medical procedures.