roadblock

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "roadblock" is correct and can be used in written English.
This word is used to refer to an obstacle that prevents something from continuing or progressing. For example, "The lack of funding was a major roadblock for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In an indication of what simmering tensions could bring if unleashed, a mob of Christian youths in Jos's Tina neighbourhood set up a roadblock yesterday where they attacked at least three Muslim residents, beating one into a coma.

The Guardian

The Coalition's policy is to reintroduce the ABCC as a "tough cop on the beat" but the government faces a roadblock in the Senate with Labor and the Greens opposing the move.

The Guardian

As for how safe this makes GM, Baulcombe says: The European roadblock on GM would be appropriate if there were evidence for an intrinsic hazard, but there is not.

The Guardian

One potential roadblock to Rubio and other early frontrunners is that Lindsey Graham, South Carolina's senior senator, is also weighing a run for president.

The Guardian

To protest UAL's decision and show solidarity with their peers, more than 100 students gathered outside the Royal Courts on Tuesday, causing gridlock for central London drivers by marching to UAL's Holborn offices and creating a roadblock, before marching back to Central Saint Martins.

The Guardian

Though I hoped it would turn up in someone's backyard under a tarpaulin next to some roadblock equipment and a witches hat, while the hangover the thieves woke up with would have been as big as the Mango they stole, it actually turned out to be a stunt by Nando's.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To get around this performance roadblock, Intel's new transistor design features a conducting channel in the form of a vertical silicon fence that stands proud of the surface.

The Economist

If no such roadblock is inserted into whatever legislation emerges from the House, Democrats and most of their allies will probably hold their noses and back it.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The temporary roadblocks included part of State Circle, one of the roads that surrounds Canberra's parliament house.

The Guardian

The prime minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, defended the police action, saying the traffic jams caused by police roadblocks were caused by "these people who are organising the demonstration".

The Guardian

Malaysian police locked down parliament with roadblocks and massive security today to prevent the opposition leader, Anwar Ibrahim, and his supporters from attending a key debate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "roadblock" to describe significant obstacles that halt progress, reserving more nuanced terms for minor challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "roadblock" in highly informal conversations; opt for simpler terms like "problem" or "hiccup" to maintain a natural tone. Using it too often can make your language sound stilted or overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The word "roadblock" functions primarily as a noun, referring to something that blocks a road or a metaphorical obstacle. As Ludwig AI suggests, it effectively conveys the idea of an impediment or hindrance. Examples include describing physical obstructions or challenges in achieving a goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "roadblock" is a versatile term that can refer to both physical and metaphorical obstacles. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English, and it appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It's important to consider the context when using "roadblock", ensuring it accurately represents the severity of the obstacle. While "roadblock" is generally acceptable for formal writing, alternatives like "obstacle" or "impediment" might be more suitable depending on the nuance you wish to convey. As a final tip, to ensure your writing is error-free avoid overusing it in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstacle

Represents a general impediment or obstruction.

barrier

Implies a physical or figurative obstruction that prevents movement or progress.

impediment

Similar to obstacle, but often suggests a more formal or systemic hindrance.

hindrance

Indicates something that delays or prevents progress.

obstruction

A general term for something that blocks a path or process.

setback

Suggests a temporary delay or reversal in progress.

bottleneck

Refers to a point of congestion or delay in a process.

stumbling block

Highlights an obstacle that causes difficulty or hesitation.

challenge

Implies a difficult task or obstacle that requires effort to overcome.

complication

Indicates a factor that makes a situation more complex or difficult.

FAQs

How can I use "roadblock" in a sentence?

You can use "roadblock" to describe both physical and metaphorical obstacles. For example, "The protest created a physical roadblock on the highway" or "Lack of funding proved to be a significant roadblock to the project's success".

What are some alternatives to "roadblock"?

You can use alternatives like "obstacle", "barrier", or "impediment" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "roadblock" to describe a non-physical obstacle?

Yes, "roadblock" can be used metaphorically to describe any significant obstacle that hinders progress or achievement. It is commonly used to describe challenges in business, politics, or personal endeavors.

What's the difference between "roadblock" and "setback"?

"Roadblock" implies a complete stop or significant obstruction, while "setback" suggests a temporary delay or reversal. A "roadblock" needs to be removed or circumvented to continue, while a "setback" is often overcome through resilience and adjustment.