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B1 verb #2,600 most common 12 min read

阻碍

zu'ai
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 阻碍 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 阻碍 in your Level:
Even though 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) is officially classified as a B1 level vocabulary word, an A1 learner can begin to understand the foundational concept of obstruction through simpler, related words like 不 (bù, no) or 停 (tíng, stop). At the A1 level, learners are primarily focused on basic survival needs, immediate physical surroundings, and simple commands. If someone or something is physically blocking the way, an A1 learner might simply say '不要' (don't) or '停下' (stop). However, introducing the conceptual framework of 阻碍 early on helps build a solid foundation for understanding how complex Chinese compound words are formed. Let us look at the characters themselves. The first character, 阻 (zǔ), contains the left-falling mound radical (阝). This radical visually represents a geographical obstacle, like a steep hill, a dam, or a high wall. The second character, 碍 (ài), contains the stone radical (石), which represents a physical rock or boulder in the path. By visualizing a high hill and a heavy rock, even a complete beginner can intuitively grasp the core meaning of this advanced vocabulary word. This visual and radical-based learning strategy is highly effective for A1 students who are just starting their journey of memorizing Chinese characters. Furthermore, understanding the general concept of hindrance is crucial for navigating daily life in any Chinese-speaking environment. While an A1 student will certainly not be expected to use 阻碍 in a spontaneous sentence, they might hear it in formal public announcements, see it on warning signs, or encounter it in simplified reading materials. Therefore, building passive recognition of the characters 阻 and 碍 is a highly valuable exercise. We encourage A1 learners to focus purely on the radicals and the general shape of the characters. When you see the mound and the stone together, train your brain to think of a blocked path. This mental association will make it exponentially easier to actively learn and use the word when you eventually reach the B1 level. In summary, while active usage is not expected or required at the A1 stage, passive recognition and radical analysis provide a strong, necessary stepping stone for future vocabulary acquisition and overall language comprehension.
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At the A2 level, learners are expanding their vocabulary to describe their daily routines, immediate environment, and common experiences. While 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) remains slightly above the standard A2 curriculum, the concepts it represents become much more relevant. An A2 learner frequently encounters situations where their plans are changed or delayed by external factors. For example, bad weather might stop a picnic, or a traffic jam might make them late for class. At this stage, learners typically use simpler structures to express these ideas, such as '因为下雨，我们不能去' (Because it is raining, we cannot go) or '路上车很多，所以我迟到了' (There are many cars on the road, so I am late). Introducing 阻碍 at the A2 level allows learners to start transitioning from these simple, multi-clause explanations to more concise, advanced sentence structures. Instead of saying 'because of X, Y cannot happen,' they can begin to understand the structure 'X hinders Y.' This is a significant leap in linguistic maturity. Teachers can introduce 阻碍 in highly controlled, familiar contexts. For instance, discussing how a lack of vocabulary 'hinders' their ability to read a Chinese book, or how a noisy environment 'hinders' their sleep. Even if the student does not actively produce the word in conversation, recognizing it in listening exercises or short reading passages builds confidence. The A2 learner should focus on the pronunciation (zǔ'ài) and the basic Subject-Verb-Object structure. They should practice identifying the 'barrier' (the subject) and the 'action being stopped' (the object) in simple sentences provided by the teacher. Furthermore, comparing 阻碍 with words they already know, like 停 (stop) or 慢 (slow), helps contextualize its meaning. It is not just stopping; it is making the process slow and difficult. By grasping this nuance, A2 learners prepare themselves for the more abstract and complex discussions required at the B1 level, bridging the gap between basic survival Chinese and conversational fluency.
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The B1 level is where 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) officially enters the learner's active vocabulary, and it is a critical milestone in achieving conversational fluency. At this stage, learners are expected to discuss topics beyond their immediate personal needs, delving into opinions, plans, abstract concepts, and societal issues. 阻碍 is the perfect tool for these discussions. A B1 learner must master the core grammatical structure: Subject + 阻碍 + Object. Crucially, they must understand that the object is typically an abstract noun representing a process, such as 发展 (development), 进步 (progress), 交流 (communication), or 计划 (plan). For example, a B1 student should be able to confidently construct and understand sentences like '缺乏资金阻碍了公司的发展' (A lack of funds hindered the company's development) or '恶劣的天气阻碍了我们的旅行计划' (Severe weather hindered our travel plans). This ability to describe cause-and-effect relationships involving abstract concepts is a hallmark of B1 proficiency. Furthermore, B1 learners must learn to distinguish 阻碍 from its common synonyms, particularly 阻止 (zǔzhǐ - to prevent/stop) and 妨碍 (fáng'ài - to disturb). They need to understand that 阻碍 implies a slowing down or a barrier to progress, whereas 阻止 implies a complete halt. This nuanced understanding prevents common communicative errors. In terms of listening and reading, B1 learners will encounter 阻碍 frequently in news articles, podcasts, and standard texts discussing economics, social issues, or personal challenges. Active practice should involve using the word in writing assignments, such as essays about overcoming difficulties, or in speaking exercises where they debate the factors that hinder success in language learning or career advancement. Mastery of 阻碍 at the B1 level signifies a transition from describing *what* is happening to analyzing *why* things are happening (or not happening), enabling much richer and more complex interactions with native speakers.
At the B2 level, learners are expected to communicate with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. The usage of 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) at this stage becomes more sophisticated, nuanced, and integrated into complex grammatical structures. A B2 learner should no longer just use the basic Subject-Verb-Object structure; they must be comfortable using 阻碍 in passive voice constructions (被动句) and with complex verb phrases. For example, they should easily produce sentences like '这项重要法案的通过被多方利益集团阻碍了' (The passing of this important bill was hindered by various interest groups). Furthermore, B2 learners should start using 阻碍 as a formal noun, recognizing its interchangeability with 障碍 (zhàng'ài) in certain high-level contexts, such as '克服前进道路上的重重阻碍' (overcoming the numerous hindrances on the path forward). At this level, the vocabulary surrounding 阻碍 also expands. Learners should frequently pair it with adverbs of degree to express precise meaning, using collocations like 严重阻碍 (seriously hinder), 极大地阻碍 (greatly hinder), or 试图阻碍 (attempt to hinder). The contexts in which a B2 learner uses this word will also broaden significantly. They will use it in professional settings to discuss project bottlenecks, in academic settings to discuss theoretical limitations, and in debates to articulate complex arguments about societal or global issues. For instance, discussing how trade tariffs hinder global economic recovery, or how traditional mindsets hinder technological innovation. The B2 learner must also be acutely aware of the register; they should know that 阻碍 is appropriate for formal writing, news reports, and serious discussions, elevating their language beyond casual, everyday slang. By mastering these advanced syntactic patterns and broad contextual applications, the B2 learner utilizes 阻碍 as a powerful rhetorical device to analyze, argue, and persuade in fluent Chinese.
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The C1 level represents advanced operational proficiency. At this stage, the learner can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions, and can use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. For a C1 learner, 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) is a fully integrated component of their vocabulary arsenal, used with precision and stylistic awareness. The focus shifts from merely constructing correct sentences to using the word to convey subtle nuances, tone, and complex analytical thought. C1 learners will frequently encounter and use 阻碍 in highly specialized fields such as law, economics, political science, and advanced literature. They are expected to understand idiomatic and metaphorical extensions of the word. For example, they might discuss '体制性阻碍' (systemic hindrances) or '心理阻碍' (psychological blocks) in academic papers. In persuasive writing or formal speeches, a C1 user will leverage 阻碍 to build compelling arguments, perhaps contrasting it with words like 促进 (cùjìn - to promote) or 推动 (tuīdòng - to push forward) to create rhetorical balance. '我们必须消除那些阻碍创新的旧体制，转而采取促进发展的政策' (We must eliminate the old systems that hinder innovation, and instead adopt policies that promote development). Furthermore, C1 learners possess the metalinguistic awareness to dissect the word itself, understanding its etymological roots and how it relates to classical Chinese concepts of flow and obstruction (such as in traditional medicine or philosophy). They can effortlessly navigate the subtle differences between 阻碍, 阻挠 (malicious obstruction), and 牵制 (to pin down/divert), choosing the exact word that fits the political or social context they are describing. At the C1 level, making a mistake with 阻碍 is rare; the challenge lies in utilizing it elegantly within complex, multi-clause sentences that demonstrate a native-like grasp of Chinese syntax and academic discourse.
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At the C2 level, the learner possesses a mastery of the language approaching that of a highly educated native speaker. They can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, and can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. For the C2 learner, 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) is not just a vocabulary word; it is a concept deeply embedded in their understanding of Chinese philosophy, history, and literature. A C2 user will deploy 阻碍 effortlessly in the most demanding contexts, such as drafting legal contracts, writing high-level policy briefs, or composing literary critiques. They understand the profound cultural resonance of the concept of 'obstruction' in Chinese thought, where the natural flow of things (whether it be Qi in medicine, water in engineering, or harmony in society) is paramount, and any 阻碍 is seen as a disruption of the natural order. In literary contexts, a C2 learner might use or encounter 阻碍 in poetic or highly stylized prose, describing the existential or historical forces that impede human destiny. They are adept at using classical four-character idioms (成语) that contain or relate to the concept of 阻碍, such as 畅通无阻 (unimpeded and free-flowing) or 艰难险阻 (difficulties and obstacles), seamlessly integrating them into modern discourse. Furthermore, a C2 speaker can play with the word, using it ironically, metaphorically, or in novel ways that push the boundaries of standard usage while remaining perfectly comprehensible and eloquent. They can engage in deep philosophical debates about whether certain societal structures are necessary safeguards or merely outdated 阻碍. At this pinnacle of language acquisition, the word is wielded with absolute precision, stylistic grace, and a profound awareness of its historical and cultural weight, demonstrating a complete and intuitive command of the Chinese language.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

阻碍 in 30 Seconds

  • Verb meaning to hinder, block, or impede progress.
  • Used for both physical obstacles and abstract barriers.
  • Commonly paired with words like development, progress, and communication.
  • Often implies a negative impact on a forward-moving process.
The Chinese verb 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) is a fundamental vocabulary word at the CEFR B1 level, primarily meaning to block, hinder, impede, or obstruct progress, movement, or development. To truly understand this word, we must delve deeply into its morphological roots, historical context, and modern applications. The word is a compound of two characters: 阻 (zǔ) and 碍 (ài). Both characters independently carry the meaning of stopping or blocking, and when combined, they create a robust and emphatic term for obstruction. Let us first examine the character 阻. It features the left-falling mound radical (阝), which historically depicts a hill, a dam, or a geographical barrier. This physical representation of a mound of earth perfectly encapsulates the idea of something standing in your way. The right side of 阻 is 且 (qiě), which acts as a phonetic component but historically had meanings related to ancestral altars or stepping stones.
Character 1: 阻 (zǔ)
Means to hinder or block. Contains the mound radical, symbolizing a physical earthly barrier.
Next, we look at the character 碍 (ài). The traditional form is 礙, which contains the stone radical (石). This is highly evocative: imagine a large boulder sitting squarely in the middle of a road. You cannot pass until the stone is moved. The simplified form 碍 still retains the core meaning of a hindrance.
Character 2: 碍 (ài)
Means to obstruct or be in the way. Historically associated with stones blocking a path.
When these two concepts—a mound of earth and a blocking stone—are brought together, they form 阻碍. In contemporary Chinese, 阻碍 is incredibly versatile. It is not limited to physical objects like fallen trees or traffic jams. In fact, it is more frequently used to describe abstract or metaphorical barriers. For example, a lack of funding can hinder a project, fear can hinder personal growth, and strict regulations can hinder economic development.

大雪阻碍了交通。

Heavy snow hindered traffic. (Physical obstruction)

缺乏资金阻碍了公司的发展。

A lack of funds hindered the company's development. (Abstract obstruction)
Understanding the distinction between physical and abstract usage is crucial for mastering B1 vocabulary. While beginners might use simple words like 挡 (dǎng) for physical blocking, intermediate learners must transition to using 阻碍 for complex situations.
Usage Context
Can be used as both a verb (to hinder) and occasionally as a noun (a hindrance), though the verbal usage is far more common in everyday speech.
Furthermore, 阻碍 often implies a negative impact on a process that is supposed to be moving forward. It is rarely used in a positive sense (e.g., you wouldn't say 'hinder the enemy's attack' using 阻碍; you would use 阻止 zǔzhǐ instead).

不要让恐惧阻碍你前进的脚步。

Do not let fear hinder your steps forward.
By mastering 阻碍, you elevate your Chinese from simple descriptions of the physical world to sophisticated discussions of processes, systems, and human psychology.

语言障碍阻碍了他们的交流。

The language barrier hindered their communication.

旧观念阻碍了社会的进步。

Old concepts hindered the progress of society.
In summary, 阻碍 is a powerful, evocative word that bridges the gap between ancient physical metaphors and modern abstract realities, making it an essential tool for any serious student of the Chinese language.
Mastering the grammatical structure and syntactic behavior of 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) is essential for utilizing it correctly in both spoken and written Chinese. As a transitive verb, 阻碍 requires a direct object. The most common sentence structure is Subject + 阻碍 + Object. The subject is typically the force, object, or concept that is causing the obstruction, while the object is the process, development, or action that is being hindered.
Basic Syntax
Subject (The Barrier) + 阻碍 + Object (The Progress/Action).
For instance, if bad weather is the barrier and your travel plans are the action, the weather is the subject and the plans are the object.

恶劣的天气阻碍了我们的救援行动。

Severe weather hindered our rescue operations.
It is important to note that the object of 阻碍 is usually an abstract noun representing a process or a state of forward momentum. You will frequently see it followed by words like 发展 (fāzhǎn - development), 进步 (jìnbù - progress), 交流 (jiāoliú - communication), 运行 (yùnxíng - operation), or 计划 (jìhuà - plan).
Common Objects
Abstract nouns related to growth, movement, or execution of tasks.
You generally do not use 阻碍 with a simple physical object as the direct receiver of the action unless that object represents a process. For example, you wouldn't say 'The chair hindered the table.' Another common structure involves using 阻碍 in a passive voice construction, utilizing the 被 (bèi) particle. The structure is: Subject (The Progress) + 被 + Agent (The Barrier) + 阻碍. This is particularly useful in formal writing or news reports where the focus is on the delayed process rather than the cause.

项目的进展被资金短缺阻碍了。

The project's progress was hindered by a shortage of funds.
Furthermore, 阻碍 can be used with verb phrases as its object. In this case, the structure is Subject + 阻碍 + (Pronoun/Noun) + Verb Phrase. This translates to 'Subject hinders someone from doing something.'

这棵倒下的大树阻碍了我们前进。

This fallen tree hindered us from moving forward.
Advanced Syntax
Subject + 阻碍 + Target + Action (Hinder someone/something from doing something).
In formal and academic contexts, 阻碍 can occasionally function as a noun, meaning 'an obstacle' or 'a hindrance'. When used as a noun, it is often paired with verbs like 成为 (chéngwéi - to become), 构成 (gòuchéng - to constitute), or 克服 (kèfú - to overcome).

高昂的关税成为了国际贸易的巨大阻碍。

High tariffs have become a huge hindrance to international trade.
To elevate your fluency, practice combining 阻碍 with adverbs of degree. Words like 严重 (yánzhòng - seriously) or 极大地 (jídà de - greatly) frequently precede 阻碍 to emphasize the severity of the obstruction.

繁琐的行政审批严重阻碍了创新。

Cumbersome administrative approvals seriously hindered innovation.
By understanding these syntactic patterns—direct object, passive voice, verb phrase object, and noun usage—you will be able to deploy 阻碍 accurately and naturally across a wide variety of communicative contexts.
The term 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) is ubiquitous in Chinese, appearing across a wide spectrum of contexts ranging from formal news broadcasts to everyday workplace conversations. Understanding where and how this word is deployed will significantly enhance your listening comprehension and cultural fluency. One of the most common domains where you will encounter 阻碍 is in business and economics. In corporate meetings, financial reports, and economic analyses, professionals frequently discuss factors that slow down growth or profitability.
Business Context
Used to describe market barriers, supply chain disruptions, or regulatory hurdles.
For example, a news anchor might report on how global supply chain issues are hindering the manufacturing sector.

供应链中断严重阻碍了汽车制造业的复苏。

Supply chain disruptions have seriously hindered the recovery of the auto manufacturing industry.
Similarly, in political and sociological discourse, 阻碍 is a key term used to analyze societal progress. Politicians, activists, and academics use it to identify systemic issues, such as inequality, outdated laws, or corruption, that prevent a society from moving forward.

官僚主义是阻碍政府效率的最大因素。

Bureaucracy is the biggest factor hindering government efficiency.
Beyond the macro level of economics and politics, 阻碍 is also deeply embedded in personal development and psychological contexts. In self-help books, motivational speeches, and counseling sessions, the word is used to describe internal barriers.
Psychological Context
Refers to mental blocks, fears, lack of confidence, or bad habits that prevent personal growth.
A counselor might advise a client on how to overcome the mental obstacles that are holding them back.

缺乏自信会阻碍你发挥真正的潜力。

A lack of self-confidence will hinder you from realizing your true potential.
In the realm of science and technology, 阻碍 is used to describe physical or theoretical limitations. Researchers might discuss how a lack of advanced equipment hinders their experiments, or how certain physical properties hinder the efficiency of a machine.

技术瓶颈阻碍了新产品的研发。

Technical bottlenecks hindered the research and development of new products.
Finally, in everyday conversational Chinese, you will hear 阻碍 when people discuss daily frustrations that ruin their plans. If someone is trying to study but their roommates are being loud, the noise is a hindrance. If someone is trying to drive to work but there is a marathon blocking the streets, the event is a hindrance.
Daily Life Context
Used for traffic, noise, interruptions, or any daily annoyance that stops you from completing a task.

大雨阻碍了我们的周末郊游计划。

The heavy rain hindered our weekend outing plans.
By familiarizing yourself with these diverse contexts—business, politics, psychology, science, and daily life—you will be able to recognize and comprehend 阻碍 effortlessly whenever you encounter it.
When learning the word 阻碍 (zǔ'ài), students frequently encounter several pitfalls, primarily due to confusion with similar-sounding or similar-meaning words. The most prevalent mistake is confusing 阻碍 (to hinder/obstruct) with 阻止 (zǔzhǐ - to prevent/stop). While both words involve the concept of stopping something, their core implications and grammatical usages are distinctly different. 阻碍 implies that an action or process is slowed down, made difficult, or obstructed, but not necessarily completely stopped forever. It focuses on the *friction* or the *barrier* in the process.
Mistake 1: Confusing with 阻止
Using 阻碍 when you mean to completely stop or forbid an action.
For example, if you want to say 'The police stopped the criminal from escaping,' you must use 阻止. The police are not just making it difficult (hindering); they are actively preventing the action.

❌ 警察阻碍了小偷逃跑。
✅ 警察阻止了小偷逃跑。

The police prevented the thief from escaping.
Conversely, if heavy rain makes the thief's escape difficult but doesn't actively forbid it, 阻碍 is appropriate: 大雨阻碍了小偷逃跑 (Heavy rain hindered the thief's escape). Another common error is confusing 阻碍 with 妨碍 (fáng'ài - to disturb/interfere). 妨碍 is generally used for minor inconveniences, disturbances, or things that interfere with a specific, immediate action, often related to personal space or concentration.
Mistake 2: Confusing with 妨碍
Using 阻碍 for minor disturbances like noise or physical clutter.
If someone is talking loudly in a library, they are interfering with your study (妨碍), not necessarily hindering your overall academic development (阻碍).

❌ 你的大声喧哗阻碍了我睡觉。
✅ 你的大声喧哗妨碍了我睡觉。

Your loud noise is interfering with my sleep.
A third mistake involves the object of the verb. Learners sometimes use 阻碍 with concrete, static objects instead of processes or actions. 阻碍 requires an object that has momentum or progression.
Mistake 3: Wrong Object Type
Applying 阻碍 to static physical objects rather than processes.
You cannot 'hinder a book' or 'hinder a cup'. You must hinder the *reading* of the book or the *production* of the cup.

❌ 这张桌子阻碍了门。
✅ 这张桌子挡住了门。

This table is blocking the door. (Use 挡住 for purely physical blocking of objects).
Finally, learners sometimes struggle with the negative connotation of 阻碍. It is almost exclusively used when a *good* or *neutral* process is being negatively impacted. You would not typically say 'The medicine hindered the spread of the virus' using 阻碍, because stopping a virus is a positive outcome. Instead, you would use 遏制 (èzhì - to contain) or 阻止 (zǔzhǐ - to prevent).

❌ 疫苗阻碍了病毒的传播。
✅ 疫苗阻止了病毒的传播。

The vaccine prevented the spread of the virus.
By carefully distinguishing 阻碍 from 阻止, 妨碍, and 挡住, and by ensuring the object is a process being negatively impacted, you can avoid these common pitfalls and speak with greater precision.
The Chinese language is rich with vocabulary related to blocking, stopping, and hindering. To achieve fluency, it is vital to understand the nuanced differences between 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) and its synonyms. We have already touched upon some of these in the 'Common Mistakes' section, but a deeper dive is necessary for comprehensive vocabulary enrichment. Let us explore the most common similar words: 阻止 (zǔzhǐ), 妨碍 (fáng'ài), 阻挡 (zǔdǎng), 障碍 (zhàng'ài), and 阻挠 (zǔnáo).
1. 阻止 (zǔzhǐ) - To prevent / to stop
Focuses on taking action to completely halt something from happening.
While 阻碍 means to slow down or create a barrier, 阻止 means to actively intervene to ensure an action does not occur or continue. It is often used with human agents intentionally stopping an event.

保安阻止了没有票的观众进入会场。

The security guard prevented the audience without tickets from entering the venue.
2. 妨碍 (fáng'ài) - To disturb / to interfere
Focuses on minor disruptions or inconveniences to an ongoing action.
妨碍 is lighter in tone than 阻碍. It is used when something gets in the way of your convenience, concentration, or immediate task, but doesn't necessarily threaten long-term development.

请把车停好，不要妨碍交通。

Please park your car properly, do not obstruct (interfere with) traffic.
3. 阻挡 (zǔdǎng) - To physically block / to hold back
Focuses heavily on physical resistance against a moving force.
阻挡 is highly physical. It evokes the image of standing in front of something to hold it back, like a dam holding back water or a defender blocking an attacker in sports.

没有任何力量可以阻挡历史的车轮。

No force can hold back the wheels of history.

他试图阻挡那个愤怒的男人。

He tried to physically block the angry man.
Next, we must consider 障碍 (zhàng'ài). Unlike the previous words which are primarily verbs, 障碍 is almost exclusively a noun meaning 'obstacle' or 'barrier'.

语言障碍是我们面临的最大挑战。

The language barrier (noun) is the biggest challenge we face.
Finally, there is 阻挠 (zǔnáo), which means to thwart or to obstruct deliberately. This word carries a strong negative connotation of malicious intent. It implies that someone is actively and intentionally trying to ruin a plan or process.

反对派千方百计地阻挠这项法案的通过。

The opposition tried every possible means to deliberately obstruct the passing of this bill.
By carefully distinguishing these synonyms, you can express the exact nature of the obstruction—whether it is a complete prevention (阻止), a minor disturbance (妨碍), a physical block (阻挡), a static barrier (障碍), a malicious thwarting (阻挠), or a general hindrance to progress (阻碍).

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Passive voice with 被 (bèi)

Adverbial modifiers of degree (严重, 极大)

Verb + Object + Verb Phrase structures

Nominalization of verbs

Using 使得 (to cause) in conjunction with 阻碍

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Examples by Level

1

大山阻碍了路。

The big mountain blocked the road.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure. Very basic physical use.

2

不要阻碍我。

Do not hinder me.

Imperative sentence using 不要 (do not).

3

雨水阻碍了我们。

The rain hindered us.

Basic noun as subject.

4

这块石头阻碍了水。

This stone blocked the water.

Using physical objects to demonstrate the core meaning.

5

他阻碍我走。

He hindered me from walking.

Subject + Verb + Object + Verb.

6

雪阻碍了车。

The snow hindered the car.

Simple physical obstruction.

7

门阻碍了风。

The door blocked the wind.

Basic noun interaction.

8

树阻碍了光。

The tree blocked the light.

Visualizing obstruction.

1

坏天气阻碍了我们的计划。

Bad weather hindered our plans.

Introducing abstract objects like 'plans'.

2

没有钱阻碍了他买房。

Having no money hindered him from buying a house.

Using a state (no money) as the subject.

3

大雪阻碍了交通，我迟到了。

Heavy snow hindered traffic, I was late.

Connecting the verb to a consequence (迟到).

4

噪音阻碍了我学习。

The noise hindered my studying.

Using an action (studying) as the object.

5

什么阻碍了你？

What hindered you?

Question format.

6

这棵树阻碍了汽车前进。

This tree hindered the car from moving forward.

Subject + Verb + Object + Action.

7

生病阻碍了他的工作。

Being sick hindered his work.

Condition as the subject.

8

不要让困难阻碍你。

Do not let difficulties hinder you.

Using 让 (let) in a negative command.

1

缺乏资金严重阻碍了公司的发展。

A lack of funds seriously hindered the company's development.

Using adverb 严重 (seriously) and abstract object 发展 (development).

2

语言不通阻碍了他们之间的交流。

The language barrier hindered communication between them.

Common B1 collocation: 阻碍交流 (hinder communication).

3

旧的观念阻碍了社会的进步。

Old concepts hindered the progress of society.

Abstract subject and object.

4

这个规定阻碍了新技术的应用。

This regulation hindered the application of new technology.

Discussing rules and regulations.

5

我们必须克服阻碍我们前进的困难。

We must overcome the difficulties that hinder our progress.

Using 阻碍 as a modifier in a relative clause.

6

害怕失败会阻碍你尝试新事物。

Fear of failure will hinder you from trying new things.

Psychological barrier.

7

交通堵塞阻碍了救援队伍的到达。

Traffic congestion hindered the arrival of the rescue team.

Real-world news context.

8

没有任何人能阻碍他追求梦想。

No one can hinder him from pursuing his dreams.

Using 任何 (any) for emphasis.

1

繁琐的行政审批程序极大地阻碍了企业的创新能力。

Cumbersome administrative approval procedures have greatly hindered the innovative capacity of enterprises.

Complex subject and adverbial modifier 极大地 (greatly).

2

项目的进展被不可预见的外部因素阻碍了。

The progress of the project was hindered by unforeseen external factors.

Passive voice using 被 (bèi).

3

贸易保护主义政策构成了全球经济复苏的重大阻碍。

Trade protectionist policies constitute a major hindrance to global economic recovery.

Using 阻碍 as a noun.

4

他固执的性格阻碍了他接受别人的合理建议。

His stubborn personality hindered him from accepting reasonable advice from others.

Psychological trait as subject.

5

基础设施的落后严重阻碍了该地区的经济腾飞。

The backwardness of infrastructure has seriously hindered the economic takeoff of the region.

Economic and geographical context.

6

我们不应让眼前的挫折阻碍我们对长远目标的追求。

We should not let immediate setbacks hinder our pursuit of long-term goals.

Philosophical/motivational phrasing.

7

文化差异有时会成为跨国婚姻中的一种无形阻碍。

Cultural differences can sometimes become an invisible hindrance in transnational marriages.

Using 无形阻碍 (invisible hindrance).

8

这项改革旨在消除阻碍市场活力的各种体制性障碍。

This reform aims to eliminate various systemic obstacles that hinder market vitality.

Using 阻碍 to modify 障碍 (obstacle).

1

既得利益集团的暗中阻挠，严重阻碍了环保法案的顺利推行。

The secret obstruction by vested interest groups has seriously hindered the smooth implementation of the environmental protection bill.

Complex political context, distinguishing 阻挠 and 阻碍.

2

在学术研究中，先入为主的偏见往往会阻碍学者发现客观真理。

In academic research, preconceived biases often hinder scholars from discovering objective truth.

Academic context, abstract psychological concepts.

3

该国僵化的户籍制度成为了阻碍劳动力自由流动的主要症结。

The country's rigid household registration system has become the main sticking point hindering the free flow of labor.

Sociological and economic analysis.

4

突破技术壁垒，消除阻碍产业升级的瓶颈，是当前的首要任务。

Breaking through technical barriers and eliminating the bottlenecks that hinder industrial upgrading is the primary task at present.

Formal policy language.

5

信息不对称极大地阻碍了市场机制发挥其应有的资源配置作用。

Information asymmetry greatly hinders the market mechanism from playing its proper role in resource allocation.

Advanced economic terminology.

6

历史的遗留问题不应成为阻碍两国关系正常化的绊脚石。

Historical legacy issues should not become a stumbling block hindering the normalization of relations between the two countries.

Diplomatic discourse.

7

他以惊人的毅力，排除了外界的一切阻碍，最终登上了科学的顶峰。

With astonishing perseverance, he eliminated all external hindrances and finally reached the pinnacle of science.

Literary/biographical style.

8

缺乏批判性思维的教育模式，从根本上阻碍了创新型人才的培养。

An educational model lacking critical thinking fundamentally hinders the cultivation of innovative talents.

Educational critique.

1

任何企图阻碍历史车轮滚滚向前的逆流，终将被时代所淘汰。

Any counter-current attempting to hinder the rolling wheels of history will ultimately be eliminated by the times.

Highly rhetorical, political/historical idiom.

2

在浩瀚的宇宙探索中，人类自身的认知局限往往是最大的阻碍。

In the vast exploration of the universe, humanity's own cognitive limitations are often the greatest hindrance.

Philosophical and scientific reflection.

3

打破思维定势的藩篱，方能扫清阻碍艺术创作灵感涌现的阴霾。

Only by breaking the barriers of fixed mindsets can one clear the haze that hinders the emergence of artistic inspiration.

Literary, poetic imagery.

4

法治精神的缺失，无形中为权力的寻租行为提供了温床，进而阻碍了社会的公平正义。

The lack of the spirit of the rule of law invisibly provides a hotbed for power rent-seeking behavior, thereby hindering social fairness and justice.

Advanced legal and sociological critique.

5

纵观朝代更迭，固步自封往往是阻碍一个文明赓续繁荣的致命伤。

Looking throughout the succession of dynasties, complacency is often the fatal flaw that hinders the continuous prosperity of a civilization.

Historical analysis using classical vocabulary (赓续).

6

资本的无序扩张若不加遏制，必将阻碍实体经济的健康生态。

If the disorderly expansion of capital is not contained, it will inevitably hinder the healthy ecology of the real economy.

Macroeconomic policy discussion.

7

他试图在纷繁复杂的表象中，剥离出那些真正阻碍事物本质发展的核心矛盾。

He attempted to strip away, from the complex phenomena, those core contradictions that truly hinder the essential development of things.

Dialectical philosophical reasoning.

8

语言不仅是交流的工具，有时其固有的结构也会成为阻碍深刻思想表达的桎梏。

Language is not only a tool for communication; sometimes its inherent structure can become a shackle hindering the expression of profound thoughts.

Linguistic philosophy.

Synonyms

妨碍 阻挠 限制 牵制 打断

Common Collocations

阻碍发展
阻碍进步
阻碍交流
阻碍交通
严重阻碍
极大阻碍
克服阻碍
构成阻碍
无形阻碍
重重阻碍

Common Phrases

阻碍了...的进程
成为...的阻碍
扫清阻碍
排除阻碍
遇到阻碍
受到阻碍
不可逾越的阻碍
打破阻碍
冲破阻碍
人为阻碍

Often Confused With

阻碍 vs 阻止

阻碍 vs 妨碍

阻碍 vs 障碍

Idioms & Expressions

"畅通无阻"
"艰难险阻"
"风雨无阻"
"千难万阻"
"阻力重重"
"关山阻隔"
"畅行无阻"
"通行无阻"
"毫无阻碍"
"排除万难"

Easily Confused

阻碍 vs 阻止

阻碍 vs 妨碍

阻碍 vs 障碍

阻碍 vs 阻挡

阻碍 vs 阻挠

Sentence Patterns

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How to Use It

nuance

Implies a slowing down or friction, not necessarily a permanent stop.

formality

Appropriate for both formal writing and serious conversation.

collocation restrictions

Rarely used with purely static physical objects as the direct receiver of the action unless implying a process.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 阻碍 when meaning to completely stop an action (should use 阻止).
  • Using 阻碍 for minor daily annoyances like noise (should use 妨碍).
  • Using 阻碍 with a static physical object as the direct receiver (e.g., 'hindering a table').
  • Forgetting the glottal stop in pronunciation, blending it into 'zǔwài'.
  • Using 阻碍 to describe stopping a negative event (e.g., 'hindering the virus'), which sounds unnatural.

Tips

Abstract Objects

Always try to pair 阻碍 with abstract nouns. Words like 发展 (development) and 进步 (progress) are its best friends. If you find yourself using a physical object, double-check if 挡住 is better. This simple rule will instantly make your Chinese sound more native.

The Glottal Stop

Pay attention to the apostrophe in zǔ'ài. It requires a glottal stop. Do not let the 'u' sound slide into the 'a' sound to make a 'w'. Practice saying 'uh-oh' in English to feel the glottal stop, then apply it between zǔ and ài.

Noun vs Verb

Remember that while 阻碍 can be a noun, 障碍 (zhàng'ài) is the dedicated noun for 'obstacle'. If you are writing an essay and need a noun, 障碍 is usually the safer and more natural choice. Reserve 阻碍 primarily for its verbal function.

News Reading

If you want to see 阻碍 in action, read Chinese economic news. It is heavily used in articles discussing market reforms, trade wars, and corporate growth. Highlighting this word in articles will help you absorb its natural collocations.

The 'Stop' Spectrum

Create a mental spectrum for stopping words. 挡住 is physical blocking. 妨碍 is annoying interference. 阻碍 is slowing down progress. 阻止 is completely stopping. 阻挠 is maliciously thwarting. Knowing this spectrum is key to fluency.

Boost Your Essay Score

In HSK 5 or 6 writing, using 严重阻碍了社会的进步 (seriously hindered the progress of society) is a high-scoring phrase. It demonstrates your ability to use advanced vocabulary with correct adverbs and abstract nouns. Memorize this exact phrase.

The Philosophy of Flow

Understand that in Chinese culture, smooth flow (of traffic, of energy, of business) is highly valued. Therefore, a 阻碍 is not just an inconvenience; it's a disruption of harmony. This cultural nuance explains why the word is used so frequently in serious contexts.

Radical Visualization

To remember how to write it, visualize the radicals. 阝 is a hill, and 石 is a stone. A hill and a stone block the path. This visual mnemonic is much more effective than rote memorization of the strokes.

Overcoming Obstacles

When you want to talk about beating a hindrance, use the verb 克服 (kèfú - to overcome). 克服阻碍 is a very strong, positive collocation. It shows resilience and is great for motivational speaking or writing.

Tone Sandhi Alert

While 阻 is 3rd tone and 碍 is 4th tone (zǔ'ài), remember that in fast speech, the 3rd tone often becomes a half-3rd tone. Don't expect a full dipping tone on 阻 in natural conversation; it will sound lower and flatter before the sharp drop of 碍.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a ZOO (zu) animal hitting an EYE (ai) level wall. The wall HINDERS its progress.

Word Origin

Compound of 阻 (mound radical, meaning geographical barrier) and 碍 (stone radical, meaning physical rock in path).

Cultural Context

Frequently used in government reports regarding economic reforms and removing 'red tape'.

Historically used in military texts to describe strategic geographical choke points.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"你认为什么阻碍了你学习中文？"

"在你的工作中，最大的阻碍是什么？"

"手机会阻碍人与人之间的交流吗？"

"缺乏资金会阻碍创业吗？"

"如何克服心理上的阻碍？"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time when fear hindered your progress.

Describe the biggest hindrance to environmental protection in your country.

How do cultural differences hinder international communication?

What are the main hindrances to achieving your life goals?

Discuss how technology both helps and hinders education.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but it's less common than using it for abstract concepts. When used physically, it usually implies the object is blocking a process, like a tree hindering traffic. If you just mean a box is blocking a door, use 挡住 (dǎngzhù). 阻碍 focuses on the disruption of movement or progress. It elevates the tone compared to simple physical blocking.

This is the most common question. 阻止 (zǔzhǐ) means to completely prevent or stop an action from happening. 阻碍 (zǔ'ài) means to hinder, slow down, or create a barrier, but the action might still eventually succeed. Think of 阻止 as a red light and 阻碍 as a speed bump. Use 阻止 when the action is forbidden or halted.

It is primarily used as a verb meaning 'to hinder'. However, in formal contexts, it can be used as a noun meaning 'a hindrance' or 'an obstacle'. For example, '成为一种阻碍' (become a hindrance). When you need a pure noun for 'obstacle', 障碍 (zhàng'ài) is often a better choice.

The most common objects are abstract nouns related to progress. You will frequently see 发展 (development), 进步 (progress), 交流 (communication), and 计划 (plan). It is also common to use verb phrases, such as 阻碍我们前进 (hinder us from moving forward). Avoid using static nouns like 'cup' or 'book' directly after it.

The apostrophe in Pinyin indicates a syllable boundary. It means the 'a' in 'ài' starts a new syllable and should not be blended with the 'u' in 'zǔ'. You need to insert a slight glottal stop (a tiny pause in the throat) between the two syllables. It should sound like 'tsoo - eye', not 'tsoo-wye'.

Generally, no. 阻碍 implies that a positive or neutral process is being negatively impacted. You wouldn't say 'The medicine hindered the virus' using 阻碍, because stopping a virus is good. For stopping bad things, use words like 遏制 (contain) or 阻止 (prevent). 阻碍 is almost always an unwanted friction.

It is officially classified as a B1 level word in the CEFR framework and is an HSK 5 vocabulary word. It is considered intermediate to upper-intermediate vocabulary. Mastering it is essential for transitioning from basic conversational Chinese to discussing more complex societal, economic, and personal topics.

You can use adverbs of degree before the verb. The most common is 严重 (yánzhòng - seriously), forming the phrase 严重阻碍. Another good option is 极大地 (jídà de - greatly), forming 极大地阻碍. These collocations are excellent for formal writing and persuasive speaking.

Yes, it works very well in passive voice using the 被 (bèi) structure. For example, '计划被大雨阻碍了' (The plan was hindered by heavy rain). This structure is very common in news reports and formal writing where the focus is on the delayed process rather than the cause.

They are similar but differ in scale. 妨碍 (fáng'ài) is used for minor disturbances or inconveniences, like someone talking loudly while you study. 阻碍 is used for larger, more significant barriers to progress, like a lack of education hindering a career. Use 妨碍 for daily annoyances and 阻碍 for major setbacks.

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