To impede means to make it harder for something to happen or move. Imagine you want to walk, but something is in your way. That thing impedes your walk, making you slow down or stop for a moment. It's like a small problem that gets in the way. It doesn't always stop you completely, but it makes things slower or more difficult.
When you impede something, it means you make it harder for it to move or happen.
Imagine a small stone in a river; it doesn't stop the water, but it slows it down a little.
So, to impede is to slow down or make progress difficult, but usually not to stop it completely.
For example, if a lot of traffic is on the road, it will impede your journey, making it longer.
It's like putting a small obstacle in the way of something that is trying to get somewhere or do something.
When you impede something, it means you make it harder for it to move or happen quickly. Imagine trying to walk through a crowd – the people in front of you might impede your progress, making you walk slower. It doesn't usually stop things completely, but it definitely slows them down. So, if something is impeding you, it's getting in your way and making things take longer.
To impede means to make it difficult for someone or something to move forward or make progress. Imagine you are trying to walk through a crowded room; the crowd might impede your movement. It doesn't usually stop things completely, but it slows them down. For example, bad weather can impede travel plans, or a lack of resources can impede a project's development. So, if something is impeding, it's acting like an obstacle, making things harder or slower.
To impede something means to make its progress or movement difficult, often by creating an obstruction. It suggests a slowing down or hindering rather than a complete stop. Think of it as putting obstacles in the way that make a task or journey take longer. This term is used when something is made less efficient or slower due to interference. It implies a significant, noticeable hindrance.
impede en 30 segundos
- Slows progress
- Creates obstacles
- Hinders movement
§ What does it mean and when do people use it?
The verb 'impede' is a versatile and often-used term in the English language, categorized at a CEFR C1 level, indicating its sophistication and the nuanced contexts in which it is typically employed. At its core, 'impede' refers to the act of delaying or preventing someone or something by obstructing them. Crucially, it generally signifies slowing down movement or development rather than bringing it to a complete halt. This distinction is vital for understanding its precise application.
- Core Definition
- To delay or prevent someone or something by obstructing them; to hinder the progress of an action or process.
Imagine a scenario where a large rock rolls into a narrow path. It doesn't completely block the path, but it makes it much harder and slower for people to pass. In this instance, the rock 'impedes' their progress. Similarly, in a more abstract sense, a lack of funding can 'impede' the development of a new research project. It doesn't necessarily stop the project entirely, but it significantly slows down its advancement.
Heavy snowfall will impede traffic on the mountain roads.
People commonly use 'impede' in a variety of contexts, ranging from physical obstacles to abstract challenges. In discussions about infrastructure, you might hear about how inadequate public transport infrastructure can 'impede' economic growth in certain regions. In sports, a foul play might 'impede' an opponent's shot at the goal. In academic discourse, a complex methodology might 'impede' a clear understanding of the research findings.
The term carries a connotation of difficulty and obstruction, highlighting the negative impact on progress. When something is impeded, it faces resistance, making its journey or development more arduous. This makes 'impede' a strong verb to convey challenges and setbacks. For example, a slow internet connection can 'impede' online learning, making it frustrating and less effective for students. Similarly, bureaucratic red tape can significantly 'impede' the process of starting a new business.
- Usage Contexts
- **Physical Obstacles:** Such as traffic, bad weather, or physical barriers.
- **Abstract Challenges:** Like lack of resources, bureaucratic hurdles, or communication breakdowns.
- **Personal Progress:** When habits or fears hinder individual growth.
- **Project Management:** Delays in timelines due to unforeseen issues.
Understanding the nuances of 'impede' allows for more precise and impactful communication. It's a word that goes beyond simple synonyms like 'hinder' or 'obstruct' by specifically emphasizing the slowing-down aspect rather than an outright cessation. This subtlety is what places it at a higher CEFR level, requiring a more sophisticated grasp of English to use correctly and effectively. By choosing 'impede', a speaker or writer communicates not just a problem, but the specific nature of that problem – one of delayed or restricted movement, rather than an absolute stop.
Lack of proper funding will impede the scientific research.
Consider the difference between saying 'The construction stopped traffic' versus 'The construction impeded traffic.' The first implies a complete halt, while the second suggests that traffic was still moving, albeit very slowly and with difficulty. This subtle yet significant difference is why 'impede' is such a valuable word in a speaker's or writer's vocabulary, allowing for a more accurate and nuanced description of events and situations.
§ Definition
- Word
- impede (Verb)
- CEFR Level
- C1
- Definition
- To delay or prevent someone or something by obstructing them; to hinder the progress of an action or process. It typically refers to slowing down movement or development rather than stopping it entirely.
§ How to use it in a sentence — grammar, prepositions
The verb 'impede' is a transitive verb, meaning it always takes a direct object. You 'impede' something or someone. It is often followed by a noun or a gerund (an -ing form of a verb acting as a noun). Unlike some verbs that require specific prepositions, 'impede' typically does not need a preposition directly after it to connect to its object. The object itself is the thing being delayed or hindered.
Consider the subtle difference between 'impede' and 'stop'. While both suggest a halt, 'impede' implies a slowing down or making difficult, whereas 'stop' implies a complete cessation. Think of a traffic jam: it impedes traffic flow, but traffic hasn't necessarily stopped entirely; it's just moving very slowly.
§ Examples in context
Heavy snowfall can impede the flow of traffic on major highways.
Lack of funding could seriously impede the research project's progress.
The strict regulations are designed to impede illegal logging practices.
His injuries will impede his ability to compete in the upcoming marathon.
Communication breakdowns often impede effective teamwork.
§ Common grammatical structures with 'impede'
- Impede + Noun: This is the most straightforward and common usage. The noun is the thing being hindered.
- Example: The storm impeded rescue efforts.
- Impede + Possessive Pronoun/Noun's + Noun (ability/progress/development): This structure is used when you want to specify *whose* ability or *what's* progress is being hindered.
- Example: The protests impeded the government's plans.
- Example: His shyness impeded his ability to make new friends.
- Impede + Gerund: While less common than a direct noun, you can use a gerund (verb acting as a noun) to show the action that is being hindered.
- Example: The dense fog impeded driving safely.
§ Synonyms and Antonyms
Understanding synonyms and antonyms can further clarify the meaning of 'impede'.
- Synonyms:
- Hinder: This is a very close synonym and often interchangeable.
- Obstruct: Implies putting something in the way.
- Hamper: Suggests making movement or progress difficult.
- Thwart: Often means to prevent someone from accomplishing something.
- Retard: To delay or slow the development or progress of something.
- Antonyms:
- Facilitate: To make an action or process easy or easier.
- Expedite: To make (an action or process) happen sooner or be accomplished more quickly.
- Promote: To support or actively encourage (a cause, venture, etc.).
- Advance: To make or cause to make progress.
§ Where you actually hear this word
The word "impede" is a versatile term that frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in professional, academic, and journalistic settings. Its C1 CEFR level suggests it's a word you'll encounter in complex discussions and advanced texts.
§ In the Workplace
In a professional environment, "impede" is often used to describe obstacles or challenges that slow down progress, projects, or workflows. It's a common term in project management, operational reports, and strategic planning discussions.
Lack of proper communication can significantly impede team productivity.
When you hear or use "impede" in a work context, it's usually referring to a factor that is making a task harder or slower to complete, rather than bringing it to a complete halt. For instance, a manager might say, "The unexpected server downtime will temporarily impede our deployment schedule," meaning it will cause a delay but not necessarily cancel the deployment.
§ In Academic Settings (School/University)
Academically, "impede" is a key word in essays, research papers, and lectures across various disciplines, including science, social studies, and humanities. It's used to discuss factors that hinder research, learning, or societal development.
Socioeconomic disparities often impede students' access to quality education.
In scientific writing, you might read about how certain environmental factors can impede the growth of a particular species. In history, an author might discuss how political instability impeded economic development in a region. The nuance here is crucial; it implies a slowing or a partial obstruction, not a complete blockage.
§ In the News
News reports frequently utilize "impede" to describe events or conditions that are slowing down progress, investigations, or responses to crises. It's a precise word that conveys a sense of ongoing difficulty rather than outright failure.
Heavy snowfall is expected to impede travel across the region this weekend.
You'll often see it in headlines or articles discussing economic challenges, political stalemates, or natural disasters. For example, a journalist might write, "Bureaucratic red tape continues to impede humanitarian aid efforts," indicating that aid is being delivered, but at a slower pace due to procedural hurdles.
§ Synonyms and Nuance
While synonyms like "hinder," "obstruct," and "hamper" are close in meaning, "impede" often carries a slightly more formal and sometimes more severe connotation. Understanding these subtle differences will enhance your ability to use the word effectively in various situations.
- DEFINITION
- To delay or prevent someone or something by obstructing them; to hinder the progress of an action or process. It typically refers to slowing down movement or development rather than stopping it entirely.
By recognizing "impede" in these common contexts, you'll not only bolster your vocabulary but also gain a deeper understanding of the specific challenges and obstacles being discussed in work, academic, and news environments.
- In work contexts, it often refers to factors slowing down projects or efficiency.
- In academic settings, it discusses hindrances to research, learning, or societal progress.
- In news reports, it describes delays or partial obstructions to events, investigations, or aid.
§ Common Mistakes with "Impede"
The word "impede" is a valuable addition to a C1 learner's vocabulary, offering a precise way to describe slowing down or obstructing progress. However, its nuanced meaning can lead to several common mistakes. Understanding these pitfalls can help you use "impede" more accurately and effectively.
§ Mistake 1: Confusing "Impede" with "Stop" or "Prevent Entirely"
- DEFINITION
- To delay or prevent someone or something by obstructing them; to hinder the progress of an action or process. It typically refers to slowing down movement or development rather than stopping it entirely.
One of the most frequent errors is using "impede" when the intention is to convey a complete halt or prevention. "Impede" implies a slowing down or making something more difficult, not necessarily bringing it to a standstill. Think of it as a speed bump, not a brick wall.
Incorrect: The bad weather impeded the flight, so it was canceled.
Correct: The bad weather impeded the flight, causing a two-hour delay.
If the flight was canceled, it was completely stopped or prevented, and a stronger verb like "canceled," "grounded," or "prevented" would be more appropriate.
§ Mistake 2: Using "Impede" When a Simpler Word Would Suffice
While expanding your vocabulary is excellent, sometimes a simpler word is clearer and more natural. "Impede" is quite formal, and in casual contexts, words like "hinder," "slow down," or "block" might be more fitting.
Less natural: My little brother always impedes my progress when I'm trying to do homework.
More natural: My little brother always hinders my progress when I'm trying to do homework.
While not strictly incorrect, "hinder" feels less formal and more conversational here. "Impede" is best reserved for situations where a slightly more formal tone is appropriate, or when you want to emphasize the act of obstruction.
§ Mistake 3: Incorrect Preposition Usage
"Impede" is typically used with a direct object. It describes what or who is being hindered. It doesn't usually require a preposition to connect it to the thing being obstructed, unlike some similar verbs.
Incorrect: The fallen tree impeded on the traffic.
Correct: The fallen tree impeded traffic.
The verb "impede" directly takes the object that is being hindered. There's no need for "on" or "with" in this construction.
§ Mistake 4: Overlooking the "Progress" Aspect
"Impede" most commonly refers to hindering progress, movement, or development. It's less common to use it for abstract concepts that don't involve a sense of advancement or flow.
Less common: The loud music impeded my happiness.
More appropriate: The loud music disrupted my concentration.
While loud music can certainly affect happiness, "impede" doesn't quite fit. "Disrupt," "affect," or "spoil" would be better choices. "Impede" works best when there's a clear sense of a journey, a process, or an advancement being slowed down.
§ Mistake 5: Misunderstanding "Obstructing Them"
The definition includes "obstructing them," referring to blocking the way or making passage difficult. This often implies a physical or tangible barrier, though it can also be figurative. However, it's crucial not to overuse it for every single difficulty encountered.
Less precise: His shyness impeded his ability to make friends.
More precise: His shyness hampered his ability to make friends.
While shyness certainly makes it harder to make friends, "hamper" or "hinder" might be more apt here, as "impede" often carries a stronger sense of a direct, almost physical, obstruction or barrier to movement or process. Shyness is more of an internal characteristic that limits ability.
§ Conclusion
By being mindful of these common mistakes, C1 learners can confidently and accurately integrate "impede" into their vocabulary. Remember its core meaning of slowing down or hindering progress without necessarily stopping it entirely, and pay attention to context, formality, and appropriate usage with direct objects. Mastering these nuances will significantly enhance your English proficiency.
§ Similar words and when to use this one vs alternatives
The word 'impede' suggests a slowing down or making progress difficult, rather than a complete stop. This nuance is crucial when choosing among similar words.
- Hinder
- This is perhaps the closest synonym to 'impede'. Both suggest making progress difficult or slow. 'Hinder' is often used when an obstacle or action makes it harder to achieve something, but not necessarily impossible. 'Impeding' often implies a more physical or direct obstruction to movement or progress.
The heavy rain began to impede the construction work.
Lack of funding will hinder our research efforts.
When deciding between 'impede' and 'hinder', consider the nature of the obstruction. 'Impeding' often involves a more direct, sometimes physical, obstacle, while 'hindering' can be more general and abstract, like a lack of resources or unfavorable conditions.
- Obstruct
- 'Obstruct' implies blocking a passage or view, making it impossible or very difficult to move forward or see. It often suggests a more complete blockage than 'impede'. While 'impede' focuses on slowing down, 'obstruct' focuses on blocking.
Fallen trees obstructed the road, making it impassable.
You would use 'obstruct' when something is fully blocking a path or view, preventing any passage or visibility. 'Impeded' would be more appropriate if the path is still technically passable, but with difficulty.
- Impede vs. Prevent
- 'Prevent' means to stop something from happening entirely. This is a much stronger word than 'impede', which only suggests slowing down or making difficult. If something is 'prevented', it does not occur at all. If it is 'impeded', it still happens, but with more difficulty or at a slower pace.
The tight deadline will impede our ability to produce high-quality work.
Strict regulations often prevent innovation.
The key difference here is the outcome: 'impede' means making something harder, while 'prevent' means stopping it completely.
- Delay
- 'Delay' means to make something happen later than planned. While 'impede' can cause a delay, 'delay' focuses specifically on the time aspect. 'Impeding' focuses on the difficulty of progress, which can lead to a delay.
Traffic will impede your journey, so leave early.
The storm is likely to delay the flight by several hours.
You would use 'delay' when the primary concern is the timing of an event, whereas 'impede' would be used when the focus is on the difficulty of the process itself, which may or may not result in a significant delay.
How Formal Is It?
"Legal challenges could obstruct the implementation of the new policy."
"The heavy rain might hinder our progress on the hike."
"Those endless meetings really slow down our team's productivity."
"The big rock will block the water from flowing down the stream."
"All this paperwork is really bogging me down."
Nivel de dificultad
The word is not very common and might require some effort to recall for a C1 learner.
Using 'impede' correctly in varied contexts requires understanding its nuances.
Incorporating 'impede' naturally into spoken English at a C1 level may take practice.
Recognizing 'impede' in spoken English is less challenging than actively using it, but still not trivial for a C1 learner.
Qué aprender después
Requisitos previos
Aprende después
Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Subject-Verb Agreement: The verb 'impede' must agree with its subject in number. If the subject is singular, the verb takes an '-s' in the simple present tense. If the subject is plural, the verb remains in its base form.
Singular: The lack of resources impedes our progress. Plural: Many factors impede the smooth functioning of the project.
Transitive Verb Usage: 'Impede' is a transitive verb, meaning it always takes a direct object. You impede 'something' or 'someone.'
Incorrect: The heavy rain impeded. Correct: The heavy rain impeded their journey.
Gerunds and Infinitives as Objects: While 'impede' typically takes a noun or pronoun as its direct object, it can also be followed by a gerund (verb + -ing) or, less commonly, an infinitive (to + verb) when referring to an action being hindered.
Gerund: The new regulations impede building more houses. Infinitive (less common): The bureaucracy impedes to start a new business.
Passive Voice: 'Impede' can be used in the passive voice to emphasize what is being hindered rather than who or what is doing the hindering. The structure is 'to be impeded by something/someone.'
Active: Traffic impediments delayed the delivery. Passive: The delivery was impeded by traffic impediments.
Prepositions with 'Impede': While 'impede' directly takes an object, you might use prepositions like 'from' or 'in' in more complex sentence structures to specify what is being prevented or where the hindrance occurs, though the direct object usage is more common for the primary action of impeding.
Less common, but possible: The dense fog impeded them from seeing clearly. More common: The dense fog impeded their vision.
Ejemplos por nivel
Big bags impede her walk.
Bags make it hard for her to walk.
Simple present tense.
The mud will impede the car.
Mud will slow the car down.
Future tense with 'will'.
Don't impede the door.
Don't block the door.
Imperative sentence.
The snow can impede the bus.
Snow can stop or slow the bus.
Modal verb 'can' for possibility.
Loud music impedes sleep.
Loud music makes it hard to sleep.
Simple present tense, subject-verb agreement.
My short legs impede my run.
My short legs make me run slowly.
Simple present tense, 'my' for possession.
A big dog might impede the path.
A big dog could block the path.
Modal verb 'might' for possibility.
Dark clouds impede the sun.
Dark clouds hide the sun.
Simple present tense, plural subject.
The heavy rain impeded our progress on the hike, making the trail muddy and slippery.
Impeded here means it slowed down or made it difficult to move forward.
Past tense of 'impede' (impeded) is used here.
Lack of funding can seriously impede the development of new technologies.
Lack of money can hinder the creation of new technology.
Here, 'impede' is used as an infinitive after the auxiliary verb 'can'.
His injury will impede his ability to play in the upcoming match.
His injury will make it harder for him to play.
'Impede' is followed by a possessive adjective and a noun ('his ability').
Traffic congestion often impedes the flow of goods and services in big cities.
Traffic jams make it difficult for things to move smoothly.
'Impedes' is used in the present simple, singular form.
We tried to remove the obstacles that were impeding the rescue efforts.
We tried to get rid of things that were slowing down the rescue.
'Impeding' is used as a present participle, acting as an adjective modifying 'efforts'.
Fear of failure can impede personal growth and prevent people from taking risks.
Being afraid to fail can stop you from growing as a person.
Used here with a direct object ('personal growth').
Bureaucracy and excessive paperwork often impede quick decision-making in large organizations.
Too much paperwork can slow down making decisions.
'Impede' is used in the present simple form with plural subject 'bureaucracy and paperwork'.
She wore a long dress that would impede her movement if she tried to run.
Her long dress would make it hard for her to run.
Used with a modal verb 'would' to indicate a hypothetical situation.
Heavy snowfall is likely to impede the rescue efforts in the remote mountain region, making it difficult for teams to reach those in need.
Heavy snowfall can slow down or block rescue efforts in the mountains.
Here, 'impede' shows that the snowfall will make the efforts harder, not impossible.
A lack of funding continues to impede the scientific research, preventing them from acquiring necessary equipment.
Not enough money is holding back the research because they can't buy equipment.
This sentence uses 'impede' to highlight a continuous obstacle to progress.
The bureaucratic red tape often impedes small businesses from expanding, as they face numerous legal and administrative hurdles.
Bureaucracy often makes it hard for small businesses to grow due to many rules.
'Impedes' here suggests that the red tape acts as a barrier, slowing down growth.
His emotional state after the accident severely impeded his ability to concentrate at work.
His feelings after the crash greatly affected his focus at work.
This example uses 'impede' to describe how an emotional factor limited an ability.
The dense forest and uneven terrain will impede our progress, so we must plan our route carefully.
The thick forest and rough ground will slow us down, so we need to plan well.
'Impeding our progress' indicates a physical obstacle making movement slower and more difficult.
Concerns about data privacy should not impede innovation; instead, they should drive us to develop more secure technologies.
Worries about private data shouldn't stop new ideas; instead, they should push us to make safer tech.
Here, 'impede' is used in a more abstract sense, meaning to hinder or hold back an idea or development.
The constant interruptions from his phone notifications began to impede his writing process, making it difficult to focus for extended periods.
His phone constantly interrupting him started to slow down his writing, making it hard to focus.
This sentence uses 'impede' to describe how distractions interfered with a mental process.
While the new regulations aim to improve safety, they might also inadvertently impede economic recovery by increasing operational costs for businesses.
New safety rules might accidentally slow down the economy by making businesses pay more.
'Inadvertently impede' suggests an unintended negative consequence of an action.
The bureaucratic red tape served to effectively impede the project's timely completion, much to the frustration of the stakeholders.
Bureaucratic hurdles slowed the project.
Using 'effectively' emphasizes the impact of the impediment.
A sudden, torrential downpour began to impede the visibility for drivers, leading to treacherous conditions on the motorway.
Heavy rain reduced drivers' visibility.
The verb 'impede' is followed by the direct object 'visibility'.
The lack of adequate infrastructure continues to impede economic development in many rural areas, exacerbating social inequalities.
Poor infrastructure hinders rural economy.
The gerund 'exacerbating' provides additional information about the consequence.
Despite repeated attempts, the dense undergrowth and uneven terrain continued to impede the rescue team's progress up the mountain.
Thick plants and bad ground slowed rescue.
Using 'continued to impede' suggests an ongoing challenge.
His persistent procrastination threatened to impede his academic success, as deadlines loomed ominously closer.
His delaying threatened his school success.
The phrase 'threatened to impede' indicates a potential negative outcome.
The government's new policies, while well-intentioned, could inadvertently impede innovation within the burgeoning tech sector.
New policies might accidentally slow tech innovation.
'Inadvertently' highlights an unintended consequence.
The sheer volume of complex data proved to impede the researchers' ability to draw swift and accurate conclusions from their study.
Too much complex data slowed researchers' conclusions.
The structure 'proved to impede' indicates that something was found to be an impediment.
A chronic shortage of qualified personnel will undoubtedly impede the company's expansion plans, regardless of market demand.
Lack of staff will definitely slow company growth.
'Undoubtedly' strengthens the certainty of the impediment's effect.
Modismos y expresiones
"throw a wrench in the works"
To prevent something from happening or succeeding, usually by causing an unexpected problem.
The sudden budget cuts threw a wrench in the works of our expansion plans.
informal"put a spoke in someone's wheel"
To make it difficult for someone to carry out their plans.
His rivals tried to put a spoke in his wheel by spreading false rumors.
informal"stand in the way (of)"
To obstruct or prevent something from happening or progressing.
Don't let fear stand in the way of your dreams.
neutral"get in the way (of)"
To obstruct or hinder someone or something.
His constant interruptions got in the way of her concentration.
neutral"hamper someone/something"
To hinder or impede the movement or progress of.
Heavy snowfalls hampered rescue efforts.
formal"hold up"
To delay someone or something.
Traffic held up the delivery by an hour.
neutral"slow down"
To reduce the speed of something or someone; to cause something to progress less quickly.
The new regulations will slow down the approval process.
neutral"drag one's feet/heels"
To intentionally delay doing something; to be slow and reluctant.
The government is dragging its feet on implementing the reforms.
informal"obstruct the view"
To block the sight of something.
The tall building obstructed the view of the ocean.
neutral"put a damper on"
To have a discouraging or inhibiting effect on.
The bad weather put a damper on our picnic plans.
neutralFamilia de palabras
Sustantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Cómo usarlo
Usage Notes:
- Formal Contexts: "Impeded" is generally used in more formal or academic contexts. For everyday conversations, words like "hinder," "slow down," or "block" might be more common.
- Focus on Delay/Obstruction: The core meaning revolves around making progress difficult or slow. It doesn't usually imply a complete stop, but rather a significant slowing or complicating factor.
- Often Passive: It's common to see "impede" used in the passive voice, for example, "progress was impeded by bad weather."
- Transitive Verb: "Impeded" is a transitive verb, meaning it always takes a direct object. You impede something or someone.
- Synonyms and Nuances:
- Hinder: Very close in meaning, often interchangeable, but "hinder" can sometimes imply a slightly less severe obstruction.
- Obstruct: Implies placing a barrier in the way.
- Impede: Suggests making movement or progress difficult, often over a period of time.
- Hamper: Similar to "impede," often suggesting a restriction of movement or effectiveness.
Common Mistakes:
- Using as an Intransitive Verb: A common error is using "impede" without a direct object. For example, Incorrect: "The construction impedes." Correct: "The construction impedes traffic."
- Confusing with 'Impel': 'Impel' means to drive, force, or urge (someone to do something), which is the opposite of 'impede'. Incorrect: "The strong winds impelled their progress." (Unless you mean it pushed them forward). Correct: "The strong winds impeded their progress."
- Overusing in Informal Speech: While not grammatically incorrect, using "impede" in very casual conversation might sound overly formal. Consider using alternatives like "slow down," "hold up," or "get in the way of."
- Incorrect Prepositional Usage: While "impede" takes a direct object, sometimes learners incorrectly try to use prepositions with it in a way that doesn't fit its transitive nature. For example, Incorrect: "They impeded on the project." Correct: "They impeded the project." (You could say "They encroached on the project" if that's the intended meaning, but not "impeded on.")
Consejos
Contextual Learning
Always try to learn new words, like 'impede', within a sentence or a paragraph. This helps you understand their usage and common collocations. For example, 'The heavy snow impeded our progress on the road.'
Synonyms and Antonyms
Group words with similar or opposite meanings. For 'impede', think of synonyms like hinder, obstruct, or hamper. Antonyms could be facilitate or expedite.
Spaced Repetition
Review new words at increasing intervals. This strengthens memory. Flashcards (digital or physical) are great for this. Practice spelling 'impede' and recalling its definition.
Active Recall
Instead of passively reading definitions, actively try to recall them. After learning 'impede', cover the definition and try to explain it in your own words. This is more effective than just rereading.
Visual Aids
Associate words with images or mental pictures. For 'impede', you might imagine a large boulder blocking a path or a traffic jam impeding the flow of cars.
Use in Conversation/Writing
The best way to solidify new vocabulary is to use it. Try to incorporate 'impede' into your daily conversations or writing tasks. The more you use it, the more natural it becomes.
Etymology (Word Origin)
Understanding where a word comes from can sometimes help with memorization. 'Impede' comes from the Latin 'impedire', meaning 'to shackle the feet', which clearly illustrates the idea of hindering movement.
Break Down Complex Words
For longer words, look for prefixes, suffixes, and root words. While 'impede' is relatively short, this strategy is useful for many C1/C2 words. Recognize 'im-' often means 'in' or 'not'.
Listen to Native Speakers
Pay attention to how native speakers use 'impede' in movies, podcasts, or news. This helps with natural usage and pronunciation. Notice the stress on the second syllable: im-PEDE.
Personalized Examples
Create sentences using 'impede' that are relevant to your own life or interests. For instance, 'Lack of sleep often impedes my ability to concentrate during work.'
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Imagine a 'speed' bump that 'impedes' the flow of traffic, slowing cars down but not stopping them completely.
Asociación visual
Picture a race car trying to speed down a track, but a giant, squishy obstacle (like a marshmallow wall) is in its way, slowing it down significantly. The car is still moving, but it's clearly impeded.
Word Web
Desafío
Describe a time when something 'impeded' your progress towards a goal, and how you overcame it.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Traffic can seriously impede the flow of emergency vehicles.
- seriously impede
- can impede the flow of
- impede emergency services
Lack of funding will impede the research project's progress.
- will impede progress
- impede the project's development
- lack of funding impedes
The storm conditions impeded their rescue efforts.
- conditions impeded efforts
- impede rescue operations
- severely impede
Bureaucracy often impedes innovation in large organizations.
- often impedes innovation
- impede creativity
- bureaucracy can impede
Injury might impede an athlete's ability to compete.
- impede an athlete's ability
- could impede performance
- injury impedes progress
Inicios de conversación
"What are some common obstacles that can impede a student's learning process?"
"Can you think of a time when a simple misunderstanding impeded a larger goal?"
"In what ways can technology both help and impede human connection?"
"How might overly strict rules impede creativity in a workplace?"
"What steps can be taken to prevent things from impeding progress on an important task?"
Temas para diario
Describe a time when something unexpectedly impeded your plans. How did you react and what did you learn?
Reflect on a personal goal you have. What potential factors could impede your progress, and how do you plan to address them?
Consider a societal issue. What systemic problems impede efforts to resolve it?
Write about a situation where someone else's actions, perhaps unintentionally, impeded your work or an activity. How did you handle it?
Explore the idea of self-imposed obstacles. How can our own thoughts or habits sometimes impede our potential?
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasWhile both words relate to stopping something, 'impede' suggests a delay or hindrance, like a speed bump slowing a car. 'Prevent' implies stopping something completely, like a wall blocking a path entirely.
Yes, absolutely! You can impede a person's progress, for example, by creating obstacles, or you can impede the flow of water by blocking a pipe. It applies to both animate and inanimate subjects.
Some good synonyms for 'impede' include hinder, obstruct, hamper, delay, block, and slow down. Each has slightly different nuances, but they all share the core meaning of making progress more difficult.
'Impede' is generally considered a more formal word. You're more likely to encounter it in academic writing, official reports, or formal discussions rather than in casual conversation.
A good way to remember 'impede' is to think of 'impediment,' which is something that obstructs or hinders. Imagine an impediment in your path, making it harder to move forward. The 'im' at the beginning often suggests something negative or a barrier.
Certainly! Here's an example: 'Heavy traffic can impede your journey, making you late for your appointment.' This shows how traffic slows down but doesn't necessarily stop your travel.
Generally, yes. 'Impede' almost always carries a negative connotation because it refers to something making progress more difficult or slower. It's rarely used in a positive or neutral context.
The noun form of 'impede' is 'impediment.' An impediment is something that impedes or hinders progress, like a speech impediment that makes speaking difficult.
'Impede' suggests slowing down or making something difficult, whereas 'disrupt' implies causing a break or interruption in the normal course of something. You might impede traffic, but a sudden accident might disrupt it completely.
'Impede' is often used in contexts related to progress, development, movement, and processes. For example, you might hear about policies that impede economic growth, or factors that impede the healing process.
Ponte a prueba 132 preguntas
Which word means to make something slow?
To impede means to make something slow or difficult.
What happens if you impede a car?
To impede means to slow something down, not stop it completely.
If a big rock is in the road, it can ___ your walk.
A big rock in the road would make your walk slower or harder, which means to impede it.
To impede means to make something stop quickly.
To impede means to slow down or hinder, not to stop quickly.
If you impede someone, you are helping them.
To impede means to make something difficult for someone, not to help them.
A fence can impede your way.
A fence can block your path and make it harder to move forward, thus impeding your way.
Listen for what can make walking difficult.
What can make the picnic hard to do?
What makes cleaning harder?
Read this aloud:
A big bag can impede my running.
Focus: impede
Dijiste:
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Read this aloud:
The loud music will impede my studying.
Focus: impede, studying
Dijiste:
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Read this aloud:
My sleepy eyes can impede my reading.
Focus: sleepy, impede, reading
Dijiste:
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This sentence means that I am able to go.
This sentence describes your feeling.
This sentence describes the size of the cat.
The heavy snow began to ___ our travel plans.
To impede means to delay or prevent something. Heavy snow would delay travel.
A broken leg will ___ his ability to play soccer.
A broken leg would hinder or slow down his ability to play soccer.
Too many distractions can ___ your progress with homework.
Distractions make it harder to do homework, thus impeding progress.
Loud music might ___ my concentration while I'm studying.
Loud music can make it difficult to concentrate, so it impedes concentration.
We need to remove the fallen tree to ___ the road.
The opposite of impeding would be to clear the road. The fallen tree itself would impede the road.
Traffic jams often ___ people from getting to work on time.
Traffic jams cause delays, meaning they impede people's ability to be on time.
Which word means the opposite of 'impede'?
'Impede' means to hinder or slow down, so 'help' is the opposite.
If something impedes your progress, what does it do?
'Impede' means to delay or prevent by obstructing, so it slows you down.
Which of these might impede a car on the road?
A traffic jam would slow down or block the car, which is what 'impede' means.
A strong wind can impede your walking.
A strong wind can make it harder to walk, slowing you down.
Eating healthy food will impede your health.
Eating healthy food helps your health, it does not impede it.
Loud music can impede your ability to study.
Loud music can make it difficult to focus, slowing down your study progress.
The word sounds like 'im-peed'.
Listen for a word that means 'slow down' or 'block'.
The word describes something that makes it harder to do something.
Read this aloud:
Can you please not impede my work?
Focus: im-pede
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
The fallen tree will impede traffic.
Focus: im-pede
Dijiste:
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Read this aloud:
I don't want to impede your plans.
Focus: im-pede
Dijiste:
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Write a sentence using 'impede' to describe something that makes it difficult to walk on a snowy sidewalk.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The deep snow will impede my walk to school.
Imagine you are trying to clean your room, but something is making it hard. Write a sentence using 'impede' to describe this.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Too many toys on the floor impede my ability to clean the room quickly.
You are trying to finish your homework, but something is interrupting you. Write a sentence using 'impede' about this.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Loud music can impede my concentration when I do homework.
What would impede Tom's journey to the park?
Read this passage:
Tom wanted to ride his bicycle to the park. But, the flat tire would impede his journey. He knew he had to fix it before he could go.
What would impede Tom's journey to the park?
The passage clearly states 'the flat tire would impede his journey'.
The passage clearly states 'the flat tire would impede his journey'.
What made it difficult for Maria to cook?
Read this passage:
Maria was trying to learn to cook a new recipe. The small kitchen space started to impede her movements. She wished she had more room.
What made it difficult for Maria to cook?
The text says 'The small kitchen space started to impede her movements'.
The text says 'The small kitchen space started to impede her movements'.
What made it hard for the team to throw the ball?
Read this passage:
The team wanted to win the game. However, a strong wind began to impede their throwing. It was hard to make good passes.
What made it hard for the team to throw the ball?
The passage mentions 'a strong wind began to impede their throwing'.
The passage mentions 'a strong wind began to impede their throwing'.
This order makes a grammatically correct sentence about rain not stopping a game.
This order forms a complete and understandable sentence about traffic causing delays.
This sequence creates a clear sentence explaining how loud music interferes with studying.
The heavy snow began to ___ our journey, making us late for the meeting.
'Impede' means to delay or prevent, which fits the context of heavy snow slowing down a journey. 'Assist' and 'hasten' mean to help or speed up, and 'accelerate' means to increase speed.
Lack of proper funding can ___ the progress of scientific research.
'Impede' means to hinder or slow down. Lack of funding would likely slow down research, not promote, facilitate, or advance it.
Construction work often ___ traffic in the city center.
Construction work typically slows down or obstructs traffic, so 'impede' is the correct word. 'Clear', 'speed up', and 'ease' have the opposite meaning.
The broken machine will ___ production if we don't fix it soon.
A broken machine would hinder or slow down production. 'Enhance', 'boost', and 'improve' mean to make better or faster.
Too much bureaucracy can ___ the implementation of new policies.
Bureaucracy is often associated with slowing down processes, making 'impede' the appropriate choice. 'Streamline', 'simplify', and 'expedite' mean to make something more efficient or faster.
Their arguments began to ___ their ability to work together effectively.
Arguments usually hinder or slow down effective teamwork. 'Strengthen', 'unite', and 'facilitate' have positive meanings related to cooperation.
Think about what heavy traffic does to your travel time.
Consider the effect of not having enough resources on project completion.
What does a muddy road do to a truck's movement?
Read this aloud:
The government's new policies might impede economic growth.
Focus: impede
Dijiste:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Don't let fear impede your progress towards achieving your goals.
Focus: progress
Dijiste:
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Read this aloud:
Lack of communication can impede teamwork.
Focus: communication
Dijiste:
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Imagine you are trying to study, but there are many things around you that are making it difficult. Write a short paragraph describing what is happening and what is impeding your progress.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I'm trying to study for my exam, but it's really hard to concentrate. My little brother is playing loud music, and my phone keeps buzzing with new messages. These things are really impeding my ability to focus and learn.
You are organizing a picnic, but the weather forecast looks bad. Write two sentences explaining how the weather might impede your plans.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
If it rains, the bad weather will impede our picnic plans because we won't be able to eat outside. We might have to delay it until next weekend.
Think about a time when you wanted to learn a new skill, like playing an instrument or learning a new language. What challenges or difficulties impeded your progress? Write a short answer.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
When I tried to learn the guitar, my lack of time for practice really impeded my progress. Also, some of the chords were very difficult to play at first.
What was impeding Sarah's progress with her report?
Read this passage:
Sarah was trying to finish her important report before the deadline. However, her internet connection kept going on and off, making it very difficult to send emails and find information. This constant problem with the internet really impeded her work.
What was impeding Sarah's progress with her report?
The passage clearly states that 'her internet connection kept going on and off,' which 'impeded her work.'
The passage clearly states that 'her internet connection kept going on and off,' which 'impeded her work.'
What was slowing down the car's movement?
Read this passage:
The small car struggled to go up the steep hill. The road was covered in thick mud from the rain the night before. The mud significantly impeded the car's movement, and the driver had to go very slowly.
What was slowing down the car's movement?
The passage explains, 'The mud significantly impeded the car's movement,' directly answering the question.
The passage explains, 'The mud significantly impeded the car's movement,' directly answering the question.
What caused a delay in the travelers' journey?
Read this passage:
During the long journey, the travelers encountered a broken bridge. They couldn't cross the river there, so they had to find another route. The broken bridge greatly impeded their journey, adding several hours to their travel time.
What caused a delay in the travelers' journey?
The text states, 'The broken bridge greatly impeded their journey,' indicating it was the cause of the delay.
The text states, 'The broken bridge greatly impeded their journey,' indicating it was the cause of the delay.
This sentence describes how heavy traffic can slow down or hinder movement.
This sentence illustrates how poor weather conditions can hinder or delay rescue operations.
This sentence shows how insufficient funds can delay or obstruct the completion of a project.
The heavy snows will likely ___ rescue efforts in the remote mountain areas.
To 'impede' means to delay or prevent something by obstructing it, which fits the context of heavy snows affecting rescue efforts.
Lack of proper funding continues to ___ the progress of many scientific research projects.
Insufficient funding would naturally hinder or 'impede' the progress of research.
The manager's strict rules often ___ creativity and innovation among the employees.
Strict rules can often hinder or 'impede' the natural flow of creativity.
Traffic congestion can significantly ___ the journey to work, making people late.
Traffic congestion delays movement, so it 'impedes' the journey.
Unforeseen technical difficulties might ___ the launch of the new software.
Technical difficulties would cause delays, thus 'impeding' the launch.
Doctors worry that smoking will eventually ___ the patient's recovery from surgery.
Smoking would hinder or slow down the recovery process, which means it would 'impede' it.
Which of the following actions would most likely impede traffic?
A car breaking down in the middle of the road would obstruct the flow of traffic, causing delays.
The heavy snowfall began to ___ the rescue efforts, making it difficult for teams to reach the stranded hikers.
Heavy snowfall would hinder or delay rescue efforts, making 'impede' the correct choice.
Which of these is a synonym for 'impede'?
To obstruct means to block or hinder, which is a synonym for 'impede'.
If you impede someone's progress, you are actively helping them achieve their goal faster.
To impede means to hinder or delay, which is the opposite of helping someone achieve their goal faster.
A sudden illness can impede a student's ability to focus on their studies.
A sudden illness can hinder or make it difficult for a student to focus, so this statement is true.
The construction work on the road will likely expedite the journey for commuters.
Construction work usually delays or hinders travel, making 'expedite' (meaning to speed up) incorrect in this context.
Think about what heavy snow does to travel.
Consider the effect of insufficient money on a project.
What impact would an injury have on an athlete's performance?
Read this aloud:
Traffic congestion can severely impede emergency services.
Focus: impede
Dijiste:
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Read this aloud:
Please ensure that your actions do not impede the work of others.
Focus: ensure, impede
Dijiste:
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Read this aloud:
The new regulations might impede economic growth.
Focus: regulations, impede, growth
Dijiste:
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This sentence correctly uses 'impede' to mean delay or hinder our progress due to heavy traffic.
Here, 'impede' is used to describe how insufficient funding can hinder the research process.
This sentence shows how new regulations might hinder or slow down economic growth.
The heavy snowfall threatened to ___ our journey, making the mountain pass impassable.
To 'impede' means to delay or prevent by obstructing, which fits the context of heavy snowfall making a journey difficult.
Lack of funding can severely ___ the progress of scientific research.
Inadequate funding often hinders or slows down the development of research, which is accurately described by 'impede'.
The dense fog began to ___ visibility for drivers on the highway, increasing the risk of accidents.
Dense fog obstructs vision, making it harder to see, hence 'impede' is the correct word to describe its effect on visibility.
Poor communication within the team can significantly ___ the successful completion of the project.
Ineffective communication often creates obstacles that slow down or hinder project success, making 'impede' the appropriate choice.
Regulations that are too strict can ___ innovation and economic growth.
Overly strict regulations can act as barriers, slowing down or preventing new ideas and economic development, which means they 'impede' progress.
The bureaucracy involved in obtaining permits can often ___ the construction process.
Bureaucratic procedures often cause delays and difficulties, thus 'impede' accurately describes their effect on construction.
Which of the following situations best describes when something might 'impede' progress?
To impede means to delay or prevent by obstructing, and heavy traffic causes delays and obstructs movement.
Which word is the closest synonym to 'impede' in the context of hindering development?
To obstruct means to block or hinder, which aligns with the meaning of impede.
Despite the team's best efforts, unexpected technical glitches continued to ___ their progress on the project.
Technical glitches would delay or hinder progress, making 'impede' the correct choice.
If something impedes a process, it means the process has completely stopped and cannot continue.
The definition states that 'impede' typically refers to slowing down movement or development rather than stopping it entirely.
A clear and unobstructed path would impede a traveler's journey.
An unobstructed path would facilitate travel, not impede it. To impede means to hinder or obstruct.
Bureaucratic red tape often serves to impede the efficient processing of applications.
Bureaucratic red tape (excessive rules and procedures) typically slows down and hinders efficient processing, which aligns with the meaning of 'impede'.
Write a paragraph describing a complex project or endeavor and discuss at least two potential obstacles that could impede its progress. Suggest strategies to overcome these impediments.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Launching a new satellite system presents numerous challenges. Technical malfunctions during the assembly phase could significantly impede the project's timeline, requiring extensive diagnostic work and part replacement. Furthermore, securing the necessary international regulatory approvals often proves to be a protracted process, potentially delaying the launch. To mitigate these issues, a robust quality assurance protocol must be implemented from the outset, and a dedicated team should proactively engage with regulatory bodies to streamline the approval process, anticipating potential roadblocks.
Imagine you are writing a letter to a local council, outlining concerns about a new urban development project. Explain how certain aspects of the project might impede local traffic flow and negatively impact residents' quality of life. Propose alternative solutions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Dear Council Members, I am writing to express my profound concerns regarding the proposed High Street development. The current plans, particularly the reduction of lanes and lack of adequate parking, will undoubtedly impede local traffic flow, leading to significant congestion during peak hours. This will, in turn, negatively impact residents' quality of life, increasing commute times and air pollution. I urge the council to reconsider these aspects. Alternative solutions, such as incorporating a multi-story car park and ensuring continuous two-lane traffic, would considerably alleviate these potential issues.
Compose a short news report about a scientific discovery or technological advancement. Include a sentence explaining how a past limitation or technical hurdle used to impede research in this area, and how the new development has overcome it.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Scientists at the Global Institute for Biomedical Research have announced a groundbreaking discovery in gene editing technology. This new CRISPR-based system allows for unprecedented precision in targeting specific DNA sequences. Previously, the lack of accurate targeting mechanisms significantly impeded the development of effective gene therapies for complex genetic disorders. This novel advancement, however, promises to revolutionize treatments for a wide range of inherited diseases, offering hope for millions worldwide.
What is the primary effect of the trade disputes mentioned in the passage?
Read this passage:
The ongoing trade disputes between the two nations continue to impede economic growth across the region. Businesses are hesitant to invest due to uncertainty, and consumers are facing higher prices on imported goods. Analysts predict a prolonged period of stagnation if a resolution is not reached soon.
What is the primary effect of the trade disputes mentioned in the passage?
The passage explicitly states that the trade disputes 'continue to impede economic growth', indicating a hindrance.
The passage explicitly states that the trade disputes 'continue to impede economic growth', indicating a hindrance.
What were the main factors impeding the rescue team's progress?
Read this passage:
Despite numerous attempts, the dense fog and treacherous terrain continued to impede the rescue team's progress. Visibility was extremely low, and the uneven ground made it difficult to transport heavy equipment. Time was of the essence, but the environmental conditions presented a formidable challenge.
What were the main factors impeding the rescue team's progress?
The passage clearly states that 'the dense fog and treacherous terrain continued to impede the rescue team's progress'.
The passage clearly states that 'the dense fog and treacherous terrain continued to impede the rescue team's progress'.
According to the passage, what is a direct consequence of inadequate funding in scientific research?
Read this passage:
A lack of adequate funding can severely impede scientific research, preventing breakthroughs and delaying crucial advancements. Without sufficient resources, laboratories struggle to purchase necessary equipment, hire skilled personnel, and conduct extensive trials. This often leads to a slower pace of innovation and missed opportunities.
According to the passage, what is a direct consequence of inadequate funding in scientific research?
The passage states that 'A lack of adequate funding can severely impede scientific research, preventing breakthroughs and delaying crucial advancements.'
The passage states that 'A lack of adequate funding can severely impede scientific research, preventing breakthroughs and delaying crucial advancements.'
The sentence describes how heavy traffic can slow down movement.
This sentence illustrates how poor communication can hinder a team's progress.
This sentence shows how regulations can slow down economic growth.
The unexpected storm threatened to ___ the progress of the mountaineers, forcing them to seek immediate shelter.
To 'impede' means to delay or prevent someone or something by obstructing them, which perfectly fits the context of a storm hindering mountaineers' progress.
Bureaucratic red tape can often ___ innovation within large corporations, stifling creativity and efficiency.
Bureaucratic red tape is notorious for slowing down or hindering innovation, making 'impede' the appropriate verb.
The lack of adequate funding will undoubtedly ___ the research project, potentially delaying crucial breakthroughs.
Insufficient funding is a common factor that slows down or obstructs research projects, making 'impede' the correct choice.
Constant distractions from social media can severely ___ one's ability to concentrate on complex tasks.
Distractions typically hinder or slow down concentration, so 'impede' accurately describes their effect.
The government's strict regulations may ___ the growth of small businesses, despite their stated intention to support them.
Strict regulations often make it harder for businesses to grow, thus 'impede' is the most fitting verb.
While the new software aims to improve efficiency, its steep learning curve might initially ___ productivity.
A steep learning curve often causes initial slowdowns or difficulties, hence it would 'impede' productivity before improvements are seen.
This sentence structure correctly places the adverb 'severely' before the verb 'impede' and forms a coherent statement about the impact of bureaucracy.
The sentence flows logically, with 'unforeseen technical glitches' as the subject and 'impede' as the verb, indicating an ongoing obstruction.
This arrangement clearly states how the 'dense fog' poses a threat to both 'visibility' and 'incoming flights', using 'impede' in its correct context.
/ 132 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Impede means to make progress difficult or slow, but not necessarily to stop it completely.
- Slows progress
- Creates obstacles
- Hinders movement
Contextual Learning
Always try to learn new words, like 'impede', within a sentence or a paragraph. This helps you understand their usage and common collocations. For example, 'The heavy snow impeded our progress on the road.'
Synonyms and Antonyms
Group words with similar or opposite meanings. For 'impede', think of synonyms like hinder, obstruct, or hamper. Antonyms could be facilitate or expedite.
Spaced Repetition
Review new words at increasing intervals. This strengthens memory. Flashcards (digital or physical) are great for this. Practice spelling 'impede' and recalling its definition.
Active Recall
Instead of passively reading definitions, actively try to recall them. After learning 'impede', cover the definition and try to explain it in your own words. This is more effective than just rereading.
