clogged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clogged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is blocked or obstructed, often referring to pipes, drains, or other systems that are not functioning properly due to a buildup of material. Example: "The sink is clogged, and we need to call a plumber to fix it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some of the worst-hit regions in 2005 lay along the Mithi River, a waterway clogged by silt, plastic and sewage that runs through the thickly populated and industrial areas of the city before draining into the Arabian Sea.

The Guardian

Mclean brushes aside any bitterness at the inequities that have clogged her rugby career.

The Guardian - Sport

Pipes and vents at the DuPont plant at La Porte have become clogged over the years, and as many as three pounds of methyl mercaptan leaks out in an hour during line-clearing activities, according to the reports filed with the commission and obtained by the newspaper.

The Guardian - Business

When that happens, there are fewer beds for patients who need to be admitted, so hospitals get clogged up, planned operations postponed and waiting times for treatment become longer.

The Guardian

UPI adds: Three aftershocks that followed on Saturday and two smaller ones yesterday sent more refugees fleeing to the relative safety of the countryside, despite attempts by officials to halt their movement over roads, already clogged by convoys of emergency supplies and ambulances.

The Guardian

But environmentalists and researchers contend that too many factors which make Mumbai vulnerable to flooding remain: unabated construction on floodplains and coastal areas, as well as the continuing problem of storm-water drains and waterways being clogged by plastic garbage.

The Guardian

This last urinal, now clogged with mud and leaves, stands in its own way as a spectral monument to an older, earthier Paris, a long way from the sleek 21st century of the city.

The Guardian

But when business slows, payrolls clogged with unneeded cutters and sewing-machine operators would drag the city's 7,000 clothing plants down.

The Economist

EARLIER this month a nuclear power station at Oskarshamn, Sweden, had to shut down because a swarm of jellyfish had clogged the pipes it uses to extract cooling water from the Baltic Sea.

The Economist

Romania and Poland are in worst shape: Poland needs $16 billion, Romania $12 billion.Most of Central Europe's arterial roads are clogged.

The Economist

The 55km Brenner Base Tunnel, being dug between Austria and Italy, and the 57km Gotthard Base Tunnel, under Switzerland, will greatly increase rail capacity for both freight and passengers between northern Europe and Italy, taking traffic off clogged Alpine roads.Plans to bring water to thirsty cities are also keeping bores busy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical blockages, consider the specific material causing the "clogged" state to enhance clarity. For example, "The drain was clogged with hair and soap scum" provides more context than simply "The drain was clogged".

Common error

Avoid using "clogged" metaphorically when simpler, more direct words would be clearer. Instead of saying "The system was clogged with bureaucracy", consider "The system was burdened by bureaucracy" or "The system was slowed by bureaucracy".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "clogged" is as an adjective, describing a state of being blocked or obstructed. It also functions as the past participle of the verb "clog". As Ludwig AI reports, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clogged" is a versatile word primarily functioning as an adjective or past participle, signifying blockage or obstruction. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used, as demonstrated by its prevalence in news sources like The Guardian and The Economist. While generally neutral in register, "clogged" can be adapted to various contexts, from describing physical impediments to metaphorical slowdowns. When using "clogged", ensure that it fits the context well and is not overused in abstract situations where clearer alternatives exist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstructed

Emphasizes the state of being blocked, focusing on the impedance of flow or movement.

blocked

A more direct and common synonym indicating a stoppage or obstruction.

congested

Implies an excessive accumulation causing blockage, often used for traffic or bodily systems.

backed up

Suggests a buildup behind a blockage, often used for plumbing or traffic.

jammed

Indicates a forceful wedging or compaction that causes blockage.

plugged

Describes something that has been stopped by inserting a plug or blockage.

impeded

Highlights the slowing or prevention of progress due to an obstacle.

restricted

Focuses on the limitation of movement or flow.

choked

Indicates a complete blockage, often used in the context of airways or passages.

foul

Highlights the contamination or corruption of a system due to blockage.

FAQs

How can I use "clogged" in a sentence?

You can use "clogged" to describe something that is blocked or obstructed. For example, "The drain is clogged with hair" or "The roads were clogged with traffic".

What is the difference between "clogged" and "blocked"?

While both words indicate an obstruction, "clogged" often implies a gradual accumulation causing the blockage, whereas "blocked" can suggest a more sudden or complete stoppage.

What are some synonyms for "clogged"?

Some synonyms for "clogged" include "obstructed", "congested", "jammed", and "backed up". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "clogged" in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, "clogged" can be used metaphorically to describe systems or processes that are slowed or hindered, such as "The legal system is clogged with lawsuits". However, ensure the metaphor is clear and effective.