impede passage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impede passage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is obstructing or hindering movement or progress. Example: "The fallen tree branches impede passage along the hiking trail, making it difficult for walkers to continue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We are indifferent to outstanding provisions, except to the extent that they impede passage of the legislation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The report also details how New Jersey and North Carolina scientists recommended a maximum chromium-6 concentration of 0.06 parts per billion following the 2008 report, meeting similar resistance that has impeded passage of drinking water standards.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In order to collect information on what impedes passage through sidewalks, such as gradients and unevenness, data were acquired and recorded from built-in sensors in regard to GPS, angles (between the gravity direction and the smartphone), and angular velocity at a regular interval during the passage through the sidewalk.

ROBOMECH Journal

Serum concentrations of NfH do not reliably identify brain injury, perhaps because the large size of this molecule impedes passage through the blood-brain barrier.

Critical Care

As the two conditions, AE and constipation, involve the gut, and as both are representative of impeded passage of its contents, we postulated a relationship between them.

BMC Gastroenterology

They tend to be larger and often contain nuclei, which could impede their passage through the body.

The New York Times

Mutations in the SCN4A gene impede the passage of sodium ions through the cell membrane, inhibiting proper muscle function.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The South American river turtle, or arrau (Podocnemis expansa), migrates along rivers in large masses that may impede the passage of boats.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These fish have been listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act since the early 1990s, their once-remarkable annual runs reduced to a trickle by habitat destruction and by the hydroelectric dams that impede their passage to the sea.

The New York Times

Mind you, these "no" votes were calibrated in such a way that they'd not impede the passage of a clean debt ceiling hike.

Huffington Post

In this study we show that epithelia in Spongilla lacustris have relatively high electrical resistances, can impede the passage of small molecules, and control their membrane potential by transport of ions.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legislative or abstract processes, "impede passage" is effective in conveying that certain factors are hindering the process from being completed or approved.

Common error

While "impede passage" is grammatically correct, it may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "block" or "slow down" when speaking informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impede passage" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "impede" acts as a transitive verb taking "passage" as its direct object. This indicates that something is actively hindering or obstructing movement or progress, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "impede passage" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that effectively conveys the obstruction or hindrance of movement or progress. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, ranging from formal to neutral, with a slight inclination towards professional settings. While applicable in many situations, it's advisable to consider simpler alternatives like "block" or "slow down" in casual conversations to maintain a natural flow. The phrase sees common usage in news, scientific publications, and encyclopedias.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstruct movement

Replaces "impede" with "obstruct", focusing on the action of blocking movement.

hinder progress

Shifts the focus from physical passage to overall progress, using "hinder" as a synonym for "impede".

block access

Emphasizes the denial of entry or approach, using "block" as a direct replacement for "impede".

obstruct the way

Focuses on the physical obstruction of a path or route.

inhibit movement

Uses "inhibit" to suggest a slowing down or restriction of movement.

restrict access

Highlights the limitation of entry or approach.

obviate flow

Refers specifically to hindering flow and uses the word obviate as a synonym to impede.

disrupt transit

Focuses on interrupting or disturbing the process of transit.

slow down movement

Emphasizes the deceleration of movement, rather than a complete blockage.

hamper advancement

Shifts the context to advancement, suggesting hindrance in making progress.

FAQs

How can I use "impede passage" in a sentence?

You can use "impede passage" to describe something that obstructs movement or progress. For example: "The fallen tree branches "impede passage" along the hiking trail."

What can I say instead of "impede passage"?

Alternatives include "obstruct movement", "hinder progress", or "block access", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "impede passage" or "impedes passage"?

"Impede passage" is used with plural subjects or in the infinitive form. "Impedes passage" is used with singular, third-person subjects (e.g., "The barrier impedes passage").

What's the difference between "impede passage" and "affect passage"?

"Impede passage" means to obstruct or hinder movement, while "affect passage" means to influence or have an impact on movement, without necessarily blocking it.