碍 (ài) - to hinder & to obstruct

碍Tone 4

ài ｜ 13 strokes ｜ radical:

安

碍 · ài

to hinder;

to obstruct;

to impede;

to be in the way;

to block

to hinderto obstructto impede

Usage highlights

to hinderto obstructto be in the wayhindranceto impedeto block the view

Synonyms

  • 阻— to block; to hinder
  • 挡— to obstruct; to get in the way
  • 妨— to hamper; to impede

Antonyms

  • 通— to clear; to open; to go through
  • 畅— smooth; unimpeded
  • 顺— smooth; favorable

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • This box is blocking the way (碍事).
  • Don't let pride hinder your progress (碍于面子).
  • The construction is obstructing traffic (妨碍交通).
  • I don't want to be a burden (碍手碍脚).

Collocations

  • to hinder(妨碍)
  • to obstruct(阻碍)
  • to be in the way(碍事)
  • hindrance(障碍)
  • to impede(碍手碍脚)
  • to block the view(碍眼)

Idioms

  • To feel ill at ease(碍手碍脚)
  • To be in the way and an eyesore(碍手碍眼)
  • Without hindrance(畅行无碍)
  • To have scruples(碍口识羞)
  • No obstacle whatsoever(毫无障碍)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In Chinese philosophy, removing obstacles (无碍) is associated with achieving smooth progress and harmony.
  • The character appears in Buddhist contexts meaning 'hindrance' or 'obstacle' to enlightenment.
  • In feng shui, avoiding physical obstructions (碍) is important for maintaining good energy flow.

FAQ