form an obstruction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "form an obstruction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that blocks or hinders progress, movement, or visibility. Example: "The fallen tree branches formed an obstruction on the road, making it difficult for cars to pass."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our task is to make a connection between the line v = μ+ w and the line v = μ− w by way of a piece of orbit of (11) that is completed in a ζ-interval of exactly length L. The preceding paragraph established that this is impossible for, since then the connecting orbit between (1, 0) and (0, 0) forms an obstruction.

Bulletin of Mathematical Biology

This has a similar effect to putting your foot on a hosepipe, in that it forms an obstruction and prevents fluids (or food) from traveling along the gullet successfully.

WikiHow

Then they clump together and form a sheathlike obstruction in the lens, causing the signature "steamy glass" vision that accompanies cataracts.

Science Magazine

A persistent RISP reaction may even form a severe obstruction, because the birth of a child requires sensitive involvement.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

The type of delivery and possible indications for operative delivery were subjected to standard rules: cesarean section was not primarily indicated (only if other indications were also present) except for cases where persisting fibroid formed an obstetric obstruction and in patients who underwent intrauterine penetration during myomectomy.

CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology

In England, Canada and other countries, agreeing to pay a defendant's bond in exchange for money is a crime akin to witness tampering or bribing a juror — a form of obstruction of justice.

The New York Times

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form, happens when there's an obstruction in the back of your throat, such as collapsed soft tissue, that interferes with air flow.

Huffington Post

Under the law, destruction of documents can be a form of obstruction of justice.

Los Angeles Times

On a couple of rare occasions (such as during the tribunate of Tiberius Gracchus), a tribune might use a form of blanket obstruction, which could involve a broad veto over all governmental functions.

Wikipedia

Fibrous ingrowth occurred at the inflow orifice of the valve and all three struts were adherent to the aortic wall, creating a "tunnel" form of obstruction.

Stanford University

Ultimately, it will be up to special prosecutor Robert Mueller to decide whether Trump's behavior constitutes some form of obstruction or a less egregious form of pressure.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "form an obstruction", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being blocked and the nature of the obstruction. For instance, specify whether it's a physical blockage, a legal obstacle, or an impediment to progress.

Common error

Avoid using "form an obstruction" in contexts where a more specific term would be more appropriate. Instead of saying "the regulations form an obstruction", consider using "the regulations create a barrier to entry" for clearer communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "form an obstruction" functions primarily as a verb phrase followed by an article and a noun, indicating the action of creating or developing something that blocks or impedes progress. The examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

22%

Science

22%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Academia

12%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "form an obstruction" is grammatically sound and serves to describe the creation of something that impedes or blocks progress. While Ludwig indicates that the phrase is correct and usable, the phrase itself occurs rarely in written english. Its usage spans across news, scientific, and general contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. When writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being blocked. For more specificity, consider alternatives such as "create a blockage" or "establish a barrier".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a blockage

Focuses on the physical act of blocking something.

establish a barrier

Highlights the setting up of a barrier, either physical or metaphorical.

cause an impediment

Emphasizes the hindering effect rather than the physical barrier.

set up an obstacle

More direct, highlighting the act of placing an obstacle.

give rise to an obstacle

More formal, focusing on the emergence of an obstacle.

generate a hindrance

Focuses on the creation of something that delays or prevents action.

lead to a bottleneck

Specifically implies a narrowing that restricts flow.

constitute an impediment

More formal, suggesting that something inherently acts as a hindrance.

build a barricade

Suggests a deliberate construction of a defensive barrier.

develop a constriction

Implies a narrowing or tightening that impedes flow.

FAQs

How can I use "form an obstruction" in a sentence?

You can use "form an obstruction" to describe something that blocks or impedes progress. For instance, "The debris began to form an obstruction in the drainpipe" or "The new regulations may form an obstruction to small businesses".

What are some alternatives to "form an obstruction"?

Alternatives include "create a blockage", "establish a barrier", or "cause an impediment". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "form an obstruction" or "create an obstruction"?

Both "form an obstruction" and "create an obstruction" are grammatically correct and widely understood. The choice between them often depends on stylistic preference or the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "form an obstruction" and "become an obstruction"?

"Form an obstruction" implies the act of creating or developing a blockage, while "become an obstruction" suggests a transition into a state of being obstructive. For example, "The snowdrifts formed an obstruction" describes the creation of the blockage, whereas "The abandoned car became an obstruction" indicates a change in state.