obstrucción

ob-strook-syohnobs.tɾukˈsjon

“obstrucción” means “blockage” in Spanish (physical obstruction like a pipe or airway).

blockage

Also: obstruction

La obstrucción en el fregadero es difícil de quitar.

The blockage in the sink is hard to remove.

Tengo una obstrucción nasal por el resfriado.

I have a nasal blockage because of the cold.

El sospechoso fue acusado de obstrucción a la justicia.

The suspect was accused of obstruction of justice.

Question 1 of 3

Which article is correct for 'obstrucción'?

👥 Word Family▼

obstructivo(obstructive) — Adjective

obstruccionismo(obstructionism) — Noun

🎵 Rhymes▼

canciónsoluciónatención

📚 Etymology▼

From Latin 'obstructio', which comes from 'obstruere' (to build against). It's formed by 'ob' (against) and 'struere' (to pile up or build).

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: obstructionFrench: obstruction

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Can I use 'obstrucción' for a traffic jam?

While technically correct if something is literally blocking the road, Spanish speakers usually use 'atasco' or 'tráfico' for everyday traffic jams.

Is 'obstrucción' formal?

It is slightly more formal than 'atasco' or 'bloqueo'. You'll hear it often in news reports, doctor's offices, or plumbing manuals.

Does it always mean a physical object is in the way?

No, it can also be abstract, like 'obstrucción a la justicia' where someone is blocking the progress of a legal case.