阻 (zǔ) - to hinder & to obstruct

阻Tone 3

zǔ ｜ 7 strokes ｜ radical: 阝

志

阻 · zǔ

to hinder;

to obstruct;

to block;

to impede;

a barrier;

difficult terrain.

to hinderto obstructto block

Usage highlights

to obstructresistanceto blockto stopobstacledifficult terrain

Synonyms

  • 碍— to hinder; to obstruct
  • 挡— to block; to stop
  • 拦— to block; to bar

Antonyms

  • 通— to pass through; unobstructed
  • 畅— smooth; unimpeded
  • 顺— smooth; favorable

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The heavy rain hindered our progress (阻碍了我们的进展).
  • We encountered many obstacles (遇到很多阻力).
  • The mountain path is rugged and difficult (山路险阻).
  • Nothing can stop me from achieving my goal (没有什么能阻止我实现目标).

Collocations

  • to obstruct(阻碍)
  • resistance(阻力)
  • to block(阻挡)
  • to stop(阻止)
  • obstacle(障碍)
  • difficult terrain(险阻)

Idioms

  • Difficulties and obstacles(艰难险阻)
  • To block the advance(阻挡前进)
  • Unimpeded and unobstructed(畅通无阻)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Originally depicted a hill or mound that blocks the way, representing physical obstacles.
  • In military strategy, refers to defensive positions and natural barriers that impede enemy movement.
  • Used metaphorically for any kind of hindrance or difficulty in achieving goals.

FAQ