preventing passage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preventing passage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is obstructing or hindering movement or access. Example: "The fallen tree was preventing passage along the hiking trail, forcing us to find an alternative route."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Just one vote is preventing passage.

The New York Times

payment increases while preventing passage of a strong patients' bill of rights".

The New York Times

In 2004, the Democrats struck back, preventing passage of a crucial state-bonds bill.

The Economist

They also lifted blockades imposed Tuesday that had cut the Gaza Strip into three zones, preventing passage among them.

The New York Times

The membrane allows passage of small solution components (usually the solvent) while preventing passage of larger molecules.

Britannica

During a gastroesophageal reflux event, the UES pressure increases more than the increase in intraesophageal pressure, thus preventing passage of material into the pharynx.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Whether there is enough anger to prevent passage of the bill entirely is less certain, however.

The Guardian

He did not abandon his old issues entirely—he campaigned to prevent passage of the Stop Online Piracy Act, SOPA.

The New Yorker

In Indiana, Republicans in the legislature again bolted to prevent passage of Democratic bills, running out the legislative clock.

The New York Times

He did not abandon his old issues entirely — he campaigned to prevent passage of the Stop Online Piracy Act, SOPA.

The New Yorker

In doing so, he virtually acknowledged that he and his wrecking crew lacked enough support from fellow Republicans to prevent passage of genuine reform.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical barrier or obstruction, use "preventing passage" to clearly indicate the act of stopping movement or access.

Common error

Avoid using "preventing passage" when referring to abstract concepts or ideas. This phrase is most effective when describing physical obstructions or barriers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preventing passage" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun, often describing an action that obstructs or impedes movement. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preventing passage" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes the action of obstructing or blocking movement. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is generally used correctly across various contexts. While it frequently appears in news and scientific sources, its straightforward meaning lends itself to diverse applications. When writing, ensure that "preventing passage" is used to describe tangible blockages or obstructions rather than abstract concepts. Consider alternatives like "blocking transit" or "impeding access" for nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blocking transit

Replaces 'passage' with 'transit' emphasizing the act of moving through.

obstructing movement

Replaces 'passage' with 'movement' and 'preventing' with 'obstructing' highlighting the impediment of motion.

barring access

Similar to 'impeding access' but suggests a more absolute denial of entry.

impeding access

Shifts focus to the restriction of entry or approach rather than general passage.

hindering progress

Emphasizes the slowing down or delaying of advancement.

averting entry

Focuses specifically on stopping something from entering a particular space.

halting flow

Specifically refers to stopping a continuous movement or stream.

suppressing transfer

Focuses on the action of stopping something from being moved from one place to another.

forestalling permeation

Implies preventing something from gradually spreading or penetrating.

stymieing advancement

Highlights the obstruction of forward movement or progress, using a more figurative term.

FAQs

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

Use "preventing passage" to describe something that blocks or obstructs movement. For instance, "The landslide is "preventing passage" on the highway".

What are some alternatives to "preventing passage"?

Alternatives include "blocking transit", "obstructing movement", or "impeding access", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "preventing passage" or "preventing access"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Preventing passage" refers to stopping general movement, while "preventing access" specifically refers to stopping entry or approach.

What's the difference between "preventing passage" and "hindering progress"?

"Preventing passage" typically refers to physical obstruction, while "hindering progress" refers to slowing down or delaying advancement, which can be more abstract.