impede the flow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impede the flow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that obstructs or hinders progress or movement in a process or system. Example: "The construction work on the main road will impede the flow of traffic during rush hour."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Pipes at wastewater plants build up mineral deposits that impede the flow of water.

The New York Times - Science

Still, Catherine's ambiguous welcome did not impede the flow of commerce or artistic influences.

The New York Times - Arts

Such offenses break the relationship with the sacred order or impede the flow of divine life.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some critics found the style of Too Far Afield rambling and too full of historical allusions, which impede the flow.

The Guardian - Books

"On the other hand, that very exclusivity can impede the flow of information that might permit, indeed spur, invention".

The New York Times

They also discussed their project to study and impede the flow of money to the Taliban resistance and al Qaeda, and sought Mr. Noorzai's help, the documents contend.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The move impeded the flow of data between researchers, it added.

The Guardian

The omission of viral hepatitis from all major global health initiatives to date has massively impeded the flow of resources.

The Guardian

Each act unfolds in real time, in precisely mapped locales, with no major improbabilities impeding the flow of events.

The New Yorker

Impeding the flow of data – and grasping for privacy – "may carry with it the presumption that one is hiding information".

The Guardian - Tech

They waved through news about state budget deficits and arms-control talks, while impeding the flow of loony conspiracy theories.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "impede the flow", consider the specific type of flow you're referring to – is it physical, like traffic or water, or more abstract, like information or progress? Choose vocabulary that is appropriate for the specific flow in question.

Common error

While "impede the flow" is grammatically correct, avoid using it too frequently in informal writing or conversation, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "slow down" or "block" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impede the flow" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "impede" is the verb and "the flow" acts as the direct object. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct. It describes the action of obstructing or hindering something in motion or progression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "impede the flow" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the obstruction or hindrance of movement, progress, or development. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and appears frequently in diverse contexts such as news, science, and encyclopedias. While it is suitable for formal and neutral registers, alternatives may be preferred in informal settings. When using "impede the flow", it is important to consider the specific type of flow and ensure the vocabulary is appropriate to that context. Avoiding overuse and opting for simpler alternatives when suitable can further enhance clarity and conciseness. Related phrases like "obstruct the passage" or "hinder the movement" provide options for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstruct the passage

Replaces "impede" with "obstruct", suggesting a more forceful blocking.

hinder the movement

Substitutes "flow" with "movement", focusing on physical motion.

disrupt the progression

Emphasizes the interruption of a forward movement or development.

slow down the process

Focuses on reducing the speed rather than complete obstruction.

block the advancement

Highlights the prevention of progress or forward movement.

restrict the current

Replaces "flow" with "current", often used in a more technical context.

curtail the stream

Indicates a reduction or limitation of a continuous flow.

stifle the progression

Suggests suppressing or holding back the natural course.

throttle the advance

Implies controlling or limiting progress, often forcefully.

retard the development

Focuses on delaying or slowing down growth or evolution.

FAQs

How can I use "impede the flow" in a sentence?

You can use "impede the flow" to describe something that hinders or obstructs movement or progress. For example: "The accident on the highway will impede the flow of traffic" or "Bureaucratic processes can impede the flow of information".

What can I say instead of "impede the flow"?

Alternatives to "impede the flow" include "obstruct the passage", "hinder the movement", or "disrupt the progression". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "impede the flow" or "slow the flow"?

"Impede the flow" suggests a more significant obstruction than "slow the flow". Use "impede" when something is seriously hindering progress, and "slow" when it's just reducing speed.

What is the difference between "impede the flow" and "disrupt the flow"?

"Impede the flow" suggests a hindrance or obstruction, while "disrupt the flow" suggests a more forceful interruption or disturbance. Disruption implies a more chaotic or irregular effect.