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C1 Verb #13 最常用 17分钟阅读

impede

前13

At the A1 level, 'impede' is a very difficult word that you usually won't see. However, we can understand it by thinking about things that make us slow. Imagine you are walking to school and there is a lot of snow on the ground. The snow makes you walk slowly. The snow 'impedes' you. It is like a big wall that is not high enough to stop you, but it makes you work very hard to keep moving. In A1, we usually use simple words like 'slow down' or 'make hard.' If you want to use 'impede,' think of it as a fancy way to say 'make slow.' For example, 'The rain makes the cars slow.' In a more advanced way, we say 'The rain impedes the cars.' It is important to know that 'impede' is about the struggle to move forward. You are still moving, but it is not easy. Think of a heavy bag you are carrying; it makes it hard to run. That bag is impeding you. Even at this early level, you can start to see how some things in life make our goals harder to reach. Whether it is a physical object like a rock in the road or a feeling like being tired, these things 'impede' our progress. Just remember: Impede = Make Slow/Hard.

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more specific verbs. 'Impede' is a word you might see in a simple news story or a sign. It means to get in the way of something so that it moves slowly. Think about traffic. When there are too many cars on the road, they 'impede' each other. They don't stop completely, but they can't go fast. This is the main idea of 'impede.' It is different from 'stop.' If a red light 'stops' you, you are not moving. If a lot of traffic 'impedes' you, you are still moving, just very slowly. You can use 'impede' when talking about your hobbies or school. For example, 'Noise impedes my study.' This means the noise makes it hard for you to study quickly or well. It is a very useful word for explaining why something is taking a long time. Instead of just saying 'It is slow,' you can say 'Something is impeding it.' This makes your English sound a little more professional. Remember that 'impede' always needs an object. You impede *something*. You can't just say 'The rain impeded.' You have to say 'The rain impeded our walk.' This is a good rule to practice as you move toward the B1 level.

As a B1 learner, you are moving into more intermediate territory where 'impede' becomes a very useful tool for your vocabulary. At this level, you can use 'impede' to describe not just physical things, but also abstract ideas. For example, you might talk about how a lack of money 'impedes' a person's ability to travel. Or how a lack of confidence 'impedes' someone's ability to speak a new language. The word 'impede' is perfect for these situations because it describes a 'bottleneck' or a 'hurdle.' It is a very common word in business and academic contexts. If you are writing an essay about the environment, you might say that 'pollution impedes the growth of plants.' This sounds much better than 'pollution makes plants grow slowly.' It shows that you have a deeper understanding of cause and effect. You should also start to notice the word in the passive voice: 'The project was impeded by bad weather.' This is a very common way to use the word in formal writing. It allows you to focus on the project rather than the weather. B1 is the level where you start to distinguish between 'impede' and 'prevent.' Remember: 'prevent' means it doesn't happen; 'impede' means it happens slowly or with difficulty. Using 'impede' correctly will help you express more complex ideas about obstacles and progress.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'impede' in both spoken and written English, particularly in formal settings. You understand that 'impede' is a transitive verb that often appears in discussions about efficiency, economics, and law. At this level, you can start to use more complex collocations. You might talk about 'impeding the flow of information' or 'factors that impede social mobility.' You also recognize that 'impede' has a formal register. While you might use 'hinder' or 'slow down' in a casual conversation with friends, you would choose 'impede' for a business report or a university presentation. This shows that you can adapt your language to suit the context. You should also be aware of the noun form, 'impediment.' For example, 'A lack of funding is a major impediment to our research.' This allows you to vary your sentence structure. Instead of always using the verb, you can use the noun to create more sophisticated sentences. At B2, you are also expected to understand the nuance between 'impede' and similar words like 'hamper' or 'obstruct.' You know that 'obstruct' is often more physical, while 'impede' is often more about the rate of progress. Mastering these subtle differences is a key part of reaching the upper-intermediate level of English proficiency.

At the C1 level, 'impede' is a word you should use with precision and variety. You understand its Latin roots ('to shackle the feet') and how this imagery informs its modern usage. You can use 'impede' to describe complex systemic issues, such as how 'institutional inertia can impede the implementation of new policies.' You are also adept at using the word in the passive voice to maintain an objective, academic tone. At this level, you should be exploring the full range of collocations: 'impede progress,' 'impede development,' 'impede movement,' 'impede an investigation.' You also understand the legal implications of the word, such as 'impeding justice' or 'impeding an officer.' Your use of 'impede' should feel natural and integrated into your broader vocabulary of 'difficulty' words. You can easily switch between 'impede,' 'hinder,' 'hamper,' 'stymie,' and 'thwart' depending on the exact nuance you want to convey. For example, you might use 'stymie' for a frustrating mental block and 'impede' for a measurable delay in a project. You also know that 'impede' is a 'transitive' verb and never make the mistake of using it without an object. Your mastery of 'impede' reflects your ability to handle the 'fine-grained' distinctions of the English language, allowing you to describe not just that something is difficult, but exactly *how* it is being made difficult.

For a C2 learner, 'impede' is a foundational part of a highly sophisticated vocabulary. You use it effortlessly in the most formal and academic contexts, often employing it to describe the subtle interplay of forces in complex systems. You might use 'impede' in a philosophical discussion about how 'subjective biases can impede our pursuit of objective truth.' Or in a high-level economic analysis of how 'regulatory frameworks might unintentionally impede the very innovation they seek to protect.' At this level, you are also aware of the word's technical uses in fields like physics (impedance) and how the verb 'impede' relates to these concepts. You can use the word with a high degree of rhetorical skill, perhaps using it in a metaphorical sense to describe how 'the weight of history can impede the progress of a young nation.' Your understanding of 'impede' is so deep that you can even use it ironically or in highly specific registers, such as sports commentary or legal briefs, without a second thought. You are also a master of the word's family, using 'impediment' and 'impeding' with perfect grammatical accuracy. At C2, 'impede' is not just a word you know; it is a tool you use to carve out precise meanings in the most challenging linguistic environments. You understand that the power of 'impede' lies in its ability to describe the 'friction' of existence—the myriad ways in which the world resists our efforts to move forward.

开始练习例句笔记与提示

impede 30秒了解

Impede is a C1-level verb meaning to slow down or delay progress by creating an obstacle or hindrance.
It is commonly used in formal contexts like business, law, science, and news reporting to describe systemic or physical friction.
Unlike 'prevent,' which means to stop something entirely, 'impede' implies that the action continues but at a much slower pace.
Common collocations include 'impede progress,' 'impede growth,' and 'impede an investigation,' and it often appears in the passive voice.

The verb impede is a sophisticated and precise term used to describe the act of slowing down, delaying, or making a process more difficult. At its core, to impede is to place an obstacle in the path of progress, whether that path is physical, metaphorical, or systemic. Unlike words like 'stop' or 'halt,' which imply a complete cessation of movement, 'impede' suggests that the action is still trying to move forward but is being hampered by some external force or internal friction. It is a word of resistance and friction. In the professional world, you will often hear it used in discussions about efficiency, where certain factors are said to impede growth or impede innovation. In a physical sense, heavy snow might impede travel, meaning cars can still move, but they do so with great difficulty and at a much slower pace than usual. The nuance of 'impede' lies in this partial obstruction; it is about the struggle to continue despite the hurdles.

Core Concept: The primary function of 'impede' is to denote a reduction in speed or efficiency caused by an obstruction. It focuses on the difficulty of the journey rather than the end of the journey.

The thick fog began to impede the rescue team's efforts to locate the stranded hikers on the mountain.

Historically, the word has deep roots in the idea of physical restraint. It comes from the Latin 'impedire,' which literally means 'to shackle the feet.' Imagine a person trying to walk while their feet are bound by chains; they are not completely immobile, but their progress is severely limited. This imagery perfectly captures the modern usage of the word. When we say that 'red tape' impedes business, we are imagining the business as a runner being slowed down by the metaphorical shackles of excessive regulation. It is a powerful word because it evokes this sense of being held back by something that shouldn't necessarily be there, or something that is actively working against the desired outcome. People use 'impede' when they want to sound precise and formal, particularly in academic, legal, or technical contexts where the exact nature of a delay needs to be communicated without the emotional weight of words like 'ruin' or 'destroy.'

Contextual Usage: In medical science, a blood clot might impede circulation. In law, a person might be charged with 'impeding an investigation' if they provide false information that slows down the police. In sports, a player might be called for 'impeding' an opponent's progress if they use their body to block their path illegally.

Economic sanctions were designed to impede the country's ability to fund its military expansion.

Furthermore, 'impede' is often used in the passive voice to describe the state of being slowed down. For example, 'Progress was impeded by a lack of funding.' This structure is very common in formal reports and news articles. It shifts the focus from the person doing the impeding to the process that is suffering the delay. This makes it an excellent tool for objective analysis. Whether you are discussing the biological factors that impede plant growth or the political factors that impede social reform, the word remains a versatile and essential part of the English vocabulary for anyone operating at a C1 level or higher. It allows for a level of descriptive accuracy that simpler verbs like 'slow' or 'block' simply cannot provide. By using 'impede,' you signal to your audience that you understand the complexities of the situation and the specific nature of the resistance being encountered.

The athlete's recovery was impeded by a recurring infection that required additional treatment.

Formal Register: Because of its Latin roots and precise meaning, 'impede' is considered a formal word. You are more likely to find it in a textbook or a legal contract than in a casual text message between friends.

Large-scale construction projects often impede local traffic for several months at a time.

Does the new software impede your ability to complete tasks quickly?

Using 'impede' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical structure and the typical contexts in which it appears. As a transitive verb, 'impede' always acts upon an object. You cannot simply 'impede'; you must impede something, such as 'progress,' 'growth,' 'movement,' or 'an investigation.' One of the most common ways to use 'impede' is in the context of physical movement. For instance, if you are describing a crowded hallway, you might say, 'The boxes in the corridor impede the flow of people.' Here, the boxes are the subject that causes the delay, and the flow of people is the object being delayed. This usage is very literal and easy to visualize. However, 'impede' truly shines when used in more abstract or figurative sentences. In these cases, the 'obstruction' is not a physical object but a circumstance, a rule, or a lack of resources.

Grammatical Pattern: [Subject] + impede(s/ed) + [Object]. Example: 'High interest rates impede economic recovery.'

A lack of clear communication between departments can seriously impede the success of a project.

Another frequent construction involves the passive voice, which is particularly useful in academic or formal writing where the cause of the obstruction might be unknown or less important than the fact that a delay is occurring. You might write, 'The development of the vaccine was impeded by several unforeseen technical challenges.' In this sentence, the focus is on the vaccine's development and the fact that it was slowed down. This allows the writer to maintain a professional and objective tone. When using 'impede' in the passive voice, it is almost always followed by the preposition 'by' to introduce the cause of the delay. This structure is highly effective for explaining why a deadline was missed or why a goal has not yet been achieved without sounding overly defensive or accusatory.

Collocations with 'Impede': Common objects for 'impede' include: progress, growth, development, movement, flow, recovery, investigation, and ability. Common subjects include: bureaucracy, lack of resources, weather, physical obstacles, and regulations.

The heavy winter gear impeded his movements, making it difficult to climb the steep slope.

It is also worth noting that 'impede' can be used to describe the effect of one person's actions on another. In a legal or regulatory sense, 'impeding' someone can be a serious offense. For example, 'The protesters were arrested for impeding the flow of traffic on the main highway.' Here, the action of the protesters is directly causing a delay for others. In a more interpersonal sense, you might say, 'I don't want to impede your work, so I'll come back later.' This shows a polite awareness that your presence might be a distraction or a source of delay for the other person. This versatility makes 'impede' a valuable word for navigating both professional environments and complex social situations where you need to discuss boundaries and efficiency.

The judge warned the witness that any attempt to impede the legal process would result in a contempt of court charge.

Advanced Phrasing: To say something 'seriously impedes' or 'significantly impedes' adds a layer of intensity, indicating that the delay is not just minor but is causing a major problem.

Constant interruptions impede deep work and reduce overall productivity in the office.

Does the lack of a university degree impede one's chances of finding a high-paying job?

While 'impede' might not be a word you use every day when talking to your family over breakfast, it is ubiquitous in specific professional and public spheres. One of the primary places you will encounter this word is in news reports, especially those concerning logistics, the economy, or legal matters. When a journalist reports on a strike at a major port, they might say that the labor dispute is 'impeding the global supply chain.' This sounds more professional and authoritative than saying it is 'slowing down deliveries.' Similarly, in economic news, analysts often discuss how high inflation or rising interest rates 'impede consumer spending.' In these contexts, 'impede' provides a sense of systemic friction that is essential for high-level reporting.

Legal and Official Contexts: In the legal world, 'impede' is a technical term. 'Impeding an officer' or 'impeding justice' are specific legal concepts. It refers to any action that makes it harder for the legal system to function correctly.

The defendant was accused of trying to impede the investigation by destroying relevant documents.

Another common arena for the word 'impede' is in the field of science and medicine. Doctors and researchers use it to describe biological processes that are not functioning at full speed. For example, a medical paper might discuss how a certain protein 'impedes the growth of cancer cells.' In this case, 'impede' is a positive thing—the obstruction is desirable. Conversely, a physician might explain to a patient how a sedentary lifestyle can 'impede cardiovascular health.' In the world of physics and engineering, 'impede' is used to describe resistance. Friction is said to 'impede the motion of an object,' and electrical impedance is a fundamental concept in circuit design. In these technical fields, the word is used with mathematical precision to describe the forces that work against a desired flow or movement.

Sports Commentary: In sports like soccer or basketball, you might hear a commentator say a player was penalized for 'impeding the progress' of an opponent. This usually refers to a foul where a player uses their body to block someone who doesn't have the ball.

The referee blew the whistle because the defender was clearly impeding the striker's run into the box.

Finally, you will hear 'impede' in corporate environments, particularly during meetings about project management or strategy. A manager might ask, 'What factors are currently impeding our ability to meet the Q3 targets?' This is a formal way of asking 'What is slowing us down?' It invites a serious discussion about bottlenecks and obstacles. In this setting, using the word 'impede' signals a level of professionalism and a focus on systemic issues rather than personal blame. It is also common in educational settings, where teachers might discuss how certain learning disabilities 'impede a student's academic progress.' In all these varied contexts, 'impede' serves as a bridge between the physical world of obstacles and the abstract world of systems and processes, making it an indispensable tool for clear and professional communication.

The CEO noted that internal politics should never be allowed to impede the company's long-term vision.

Everyday Formalities: Even in daily life, you might see signs that say 'Do not impede the flow of traffic' or 'Do not impede the emergency exit.' These are official instructions that use 'impede' to cover a wide range of potential obstructions.

The heavy rainfall did not impede the festival-goers from enjoying the music.

Will the new regulations impede our ability to export goods to Europe?

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'impede' is confusing it with words that mean a total stop, such as 'prevent' or 'block.' While they are related, 'impede' specifically focuses on the *slowing down* of a process. If you say 'The wall impeded my path,' it implies you could still get around it, but it was difficult. If the wall completely stopped you, 'blocked' or 'prevented' would be more accurate. Another common error is using 'impede' as an intransitive verb. You cannot say 'The rain impeded.' You must say 'The rain impeded *our progress*.' It always needs an object to complete the thought. This is a common trap for those who are used to verbs like 'delay,' which can sometimes be used without a direct object in casual speech.

Impede vs. Prevent: 'Prevent' means the action never happens. 'Impede' means the action happens, but it is slow and difficult. Example: 'The lock prevented him from entering' vs. 'The heavy door impeded his entry.'

Incorrect: The heavy traffic impeded for two hours.
Correct: The heavy traffic impeded our commute for two hours.

Another nuance that is often missed is the difference between 'impede' and 'hinder.' While they are very close synonyms, 'hinder' is often used for personal or physical delays, whereas 'impede' is slightly more formal and is frequently used for systemic or abstract delays. You might 'hinder' a friend by talking to them while they study, but a new law might 'impede' the development of a city. Using 'impede' in a very casual context can sometimes sound a bit 'stiff' or overly academic. For example, saying 'Don't impede me while I'm cooking' to your sibling sounds a bit strange; 'Don't get in my way' or 'Don't slow me down' is much more natural. Save 'impede' for when you want to sound more professional or when you are describing a more serious obstruction.

Preposition Pitfalls: Do not use 'from' after 'impede' like you do with 'prevent.' Incorrect: 'The rain impeded us from going.' Correct: 'The rain impeded our journey.'

Incorrect: Lack of sleep impedes from thinking clearly.
Correct: Lack of sleep impedes the ability to think clearly.

Finally, be careful with the spelling. Because of its Latin origin, some people are tempted to spell it with an 'i' at the end or double the 'p.' It is always I-M-P-E-D-E. Also, remember that the noun form is 'impediment.' People often try to use 'impedance' as the general noun, but 'impedance' is specifically a term used in physics and electronics. If you have a speech problem, it is a 'speech impediment,' not a 'speech impedance.' Keeping these distinctions clear will help you use the word with the precision that a C1 level speaker is expected to have. Mastery of 'impede' is not just about knowing what it means, but knowing exactly where it fits in the landscape of similar verbs that describe difficulty and delay.

The company's growth was not impeded by the economic downturn, thanks to their diverse portfolio.

Confusing with 'Hamper': 'Hamper' often implies being weighed down by something you are carrying or a situation you are in. 'Impede' is more about an external barrier. You are 'hampered' by your heavy bags, but the narrow door 'impedes' your entry.

The new security measures were criticized for impeding the efficiency of the airport check-in process.

Does the language barrier impede your ability to make friends in a new country?

To truly master 'impede,' it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and understand the subtle differences in their meanings. The English language is rich with words that describe 'slowing down' or 'making difficult,' and choosing the right one can significantly change the tone of your sentence. The most common synonym is 'hinder.' While 'hinder' and 'impede' are often interchangeable, 'hinder' is slightly less formal and can apply to a wider range of situations, including personal interactions. If a child is 'hindering' their parent from cleaning, it sounds natural. If the child is 'impeding' the cleaning, it sounds like a formal report. Another close relative is 'obstruct.' 'Obstruct' usually implies a physical blockage. You obstruct a view or a pipe. 'Impede' is more about the effect on the *process* of moving or growing.

Impede vs. Obstruct: 'Obstruct' is often physical (blocking a road). 'Impede' is often about speed and efficiency (slowing down the traffic on that road).

While the fallen tree obstructed the road entirely, the heavy rain merely impeded the drivers' progress.

Then we have 'hamper.' This word often suggests that someone is being slowed down by something they are carrying or a situation they are 'wrapped up' in. If you are trying to run while wearing a long, heavy coat, you are 'hampered' by the coat. 'Impede' is more about the external resistance. Another interesting alternative is 'stymie.' This is a more informal, almost playful word, often used when someone is completely frustrated or blocked by a problem. If you are 'stymied' by a crossword puzzle, it means you are stuck. 'Impede' wouldn't fit there because a puzzle doesn't 'slow down' your progress in the same way a physical or systemic barrier does. 'Thwart' is another strong alternative, but it implies a more active, intentional stopping of a plan. If a hero 'thwarts' a villain, they stop the villain's plan from happening at all.

Impede vs. Inhibit: 'Inhibit' is often used in biological or psychological contexts. Fear might 'inhibit' your performance. A chemical might 'inhibit' a reaction. 'Impede' is more about the external mechanics of delay.

The new law was intended to inhibit the growth of illegal monopolies, but it ended up impeding small business development instead.

Finally, consider 'retard.' While this word has a very negative and offensive connotation when used to describe people, in technical and scientific contexts, it is a neutral synonym for 'slow down.' For example, 'fire-retardant' materials are designed to 'retard' (slow down) the spread of fire. However, in almost all other contexts, 'impede' is a much safer and more professional choice. 'Encumber' is another high-level synonym, often used when someone is burdened by debt or heavy responsibilities. If you are 'encumbered' by debt, it 'impedes' your ability to save money. Understanding these subtle shifts in meaning—from the physical 'obstruct' to the systemic 'impede' and the burdensome 'encumber'—is what separates a good English speaker from a truly great one.

The heavy backpack encumbered the hiker, significantly impeding her pace on the trail.

Antonyms to Consider: To do the opposite of impede, you might 'facilitate,' 'expedite,' 'promote,' or 'assist.' These words all describe making a process faster or easier.

The goal of the new software is to facilitate communication, not impede it with unnecessary steps.

Will the lack of experience impede his ability to lead the team effectively?

How Formal Is It?

正式

中性

非正式

Child friendly

俚语

趣味小知识

The antonym 'expedite' comes from the same root! While 'impede' means to shackle the feet (in-ped), 'expedite' means to free the feet (ex-ped). So, you are either tying feet up or letting them run free.

发音指南

UK /ɪmˈpiːd/

US /ɪmˈpid/

The stress is on the second syllable: im-PEDE.

押韵词

concede recede precede exceed succeed proceed bleed creed

常见错误

Pronouncing it as 'im-ped' (short e).
Confusing the spelling with 'impede' (adding an extra 'e' at the end is correct, but some forget it).
Stressing the first syllable 'IM-pede'.
Confusing it with 'impel' (which means to drive forward).
Mispronouncing the 'i' as a long 'ai' sound.

难度评级

阅读 4/5

Common in academic and news texts, but requires a good vocabulary to distinguish from synonyms.

写作 5/5

Requires careful use of direct objects and correct prepositional structures.

口语 4/5

Useful for professional meetings but can sound overly formal in casual chat.

听力 3/5

Clear pronunciation makes it relatively easy to catch in formal speech.

接下来学什么

前置知识

slow block delay stop hinder

接下来学习

stymie thwart facilitate expedite obstruct

高级

impedimenta impedance ontological bureaucracy inertia

需要掌握的语法

Transitive Verbs

You must have an object after 'impede'. Correct: 'The rain impeded our walk.' Incorrect: 'The rain impeded.'

Passive Voice for Objectivity

'The project was impeded by funding issues' is better in reports than 'Funding issues impeded the project.'

Gerunds as Objects

You can impede an action. 'The noise impeded my studying for the exam.'

Adverb Placement

Adverbs like 'seriously' or 'significantly' usually come before 'impede'. 'This will significantly impede us.'

Noun vs. Verb

Use 'impediment' as a noun. 'The language barrier was a major impediment.'

按水平分级的例句

The big rocks impede the small cars on the road.

The rocks make the cars slow.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

Does the rain impede your walk to school?

Does the rain make your walk hard?

Question form using 'does'.

Heavy bags can impede a person when they run.

Bags make running slow.

Use of modal verb 'can'.

The snow will impede the bus today.

The snow will make the bus late.

Future tense with 'will'.

A tall fence can impede a dog.

The fence stops the dog from moving fast.

Simple transitive verb usage.

Don't let the noise impede your sleep.

Don't let noise make it hard to sleep.

Imperative form 'Don't let'.

The crowd will impede our way to the door.

The people will make it slow to get to the door.

Future tense with 'will'.

I do not want to impede you.

I don't want to slow you down.

Negative form with 'do not'.

The construction work on the bridge will impede traffic for weeks.

The work will slow down the cars.

Future tense with 'will' and a time phrase.

Bad weather often impedes the planes at the airport.

The weather makes the planes late.

Present simple for a general truth.

His injury might impede his ability to play in the game.

His hurt leg might make it hard to play.

Use of 'might' for possibility.

The narrow streets impede the large trucks in the city.

The small roads make the big trucks slow.

Plural subject and object.

Does the lack of light impede your reading?

Is it hard to read because it is dark?

Interrogative form.

The thick forest impeded the hikers' progress.

The trees made the hikers walk slowly.

Past simple tense.

We should not impede the flow of the river.

We should not slow down the water.

Modal verb 'should' in the negative.

The broken elevator will impede the people living on the top floor.

The broken lift will make it hard for people to go up.

Future tense with a relative clause.

A lack of funding can seriously impede the development of new technology.

No money makes it hard to build new things.

Use of adverb 'seriously' to modify the verb.

The government's new rules might impede small business growth.

The rules might slow down how fast small shops grow.

Possessive 'government's' and compound noun 'business growth'.

The heavy fog impeded the search for the missing boat.

The fog made it difficult to find the boat.

Past simple tense with a specific object.

Does the language barrier impede your work in this international company?

Is your work slower because you don't speak the language perfectly?

Interrogative form in a professional context.

The project was impeded by several technical difficulties.

The project was slowed down by computer problems.

Passive voice construction 'was impeded by'.

We must ensure that bureaucracy does not impede our efficiency.

We must make sure that paperwork doesn't slow us down.

Use of 'must ensure' and a 'that' clause.

The narrow entrance impeded the movement of the large furniture.

The small door made it hard to move the big sofa.

Past simple tense.

His fear of failure often impedes his creative process.

Being afraid to fail makes it hard for him to be creative.

Abstract subject 'fear of failure'.

The new regulations were criticized for impeding the free flow of trade.

People said the rules slowed down international business.

Passive voice with a 'for + -ing' reason.

Constant interruptions can significantly impede your ability to focus on complex tasks.

People talking to you makes it hard to do difficult work.

Adverb 'significantly' and 'ability to' structure.

The athlete's recovery was impeded by a recurring knee injury.

The player's healing was slowed down by their bad knee.

Passive voice with a specific medical context.

Do you think the current economic climate will impede our expansion plans?

Will the bad economy slow down our plans to grow the company?

Indirect question 'Do you think...'.

The protesters were accused of impeding the legal process by blocking the courthouse.

The police said the protesters slowed down the law.

Legal context with 'accused of + -ing'.

A lack of transparency can impede the building of trust within a team.

Not being honest makes it hard for a team to trust each other.

Abstract concept 'lack of transparency'.

The thick undergrowth impeded the soldiers' movement through the jungle.

The plants made it very slow for the soldiers to walk.

Formal narrative style.

The software update was designed to improve speed, but it actually impeded performance.

The update was supposed to be fast but it was slow.

Contrastive structure 'designed to... but actually...'.

The inherent complexity of the legal system can often impede the pursuit of justice.

The law is so hard that it slows down what is right.

High-level vocabulary like 'inherent' and 'pursuit'.

It is argued that excessive taxation can impede innovation by reducing available capital.

Some say high taxes slow down new ideas because there is less money.

Passive reporting structure 'It is argued that...'.

The geological features of the region significantly impeded the expansion of the early empire.

The mountains and rivers slowed down the old kingdom's growth.

Historical context with precise adverbs.

The witness was charged with impeding an investigation after providing false testimony.

The person was in trouble for slowing down the police with lies.

Legal terminology 'charged with' and 'testimony'.

Does the current political deadlock impede the implementation of necessary social reforms?

Does the fighting in government slow down new social laws?

Complex political vocabulary 'deadlock' and 'implementation'.

The presence of inhibitors in the chemical reaction can impede the formation of the desired product.

Some chemicals slow down the making of the final result.

Scientific context with technical terms.

The sheer volume of data can sometimes impede our ability to draw meaningful conclusions.

Having too much information makes it hard to understand what is important.

Abstract 'ability to' structure with 'meaningful'.

Cultural misunderstandings can often impede effective communication in international negotiations.

Not knowing a culture can slow down talking in big meetings.

Sociological context.

The ontological assumptions of the researcher may inadvertently impede the discovery of novel phenomena.

What the scientist believes about reality might slow down finding new things.

Highly academic vocabulary 'ontological' and 'phenomena'.

The structural rigidities of the labor market continue to impede a full economic recovery.

The way jobs are set up slows down the economy getting better.

Economic terminology 'structural rigidities'.

One must consider whether the very tools of language might impede our direct experience of reality.

Do words themselves slow down how we feel the world?

Philosophical inquiry with 'one must consider'.

The proliferation of bureaucratic hurdles served only to impede the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Too many rules just slowed down the help for people in need.

Sophisticated phrasing 'proliferation' and 'humanitarian aid'.

The court found that the defendant had acted with the specific intent to impede the administration of justice.

The judge said the person tried on purpose to slow down the law.

Formal legal phrasing 'administration of justice'.

In certain biological systems, negative feedback loops are essential to impede runaway growth.

In bodies, some things slow down growth so it doesn't get out of control.

Technical scientific context.

The aesthetic choices of the director, while bold, were seen by some as impeding the narrative flow.

The movie's style made the story feel slow and hard to follow.

Art criticism context.

To what extent do historical grievances continue to impede the process of national reconciliation?

How much do old fights slow down a country becoming peaceful?

Complex rhetorical question 'To what extent...'.

常见搭配

impede progress

impede growth

impede movement

impede an investigation

impede development

impede flow

impede ability

seriously impede

significantly impede

impede recovery

常用短语

Do not impede

Impeding the flow of traffic

Impede the process

Impede the path

Impede communication

Impede the efforts

Impede the search

Impede the view

Impede the function

Impede the success

容易混淆的词

impede vs prevent

'Prevent' means the action stops or never happens. 'Impede' means it happens but slowly.

impede vs obstruct

'Obstruct' is usually a physical block (like a wall). 'Impede' is more about the delay caused.

impede vs impel

'Impel' means to drive or force someone forward, which is the opposite of 'impede'.

习语与表达

"Throw a wrench in the works"

To do something that suddenly impedes or ruins a plan or process.

The sudden change in policy threw a wrench in the works of our project.

Informal

"Put a spoke in someone's wheel"

To deliberately impede someone's plans or progress.

He tried to put a spoke in my wheel by complaining to the manager.

Informal

"Red tape"

Excessive bureaucracy that impedes progress.

We had to deal with so much red tape to get the building permit.

Neutral

"Drag one's feet"

To move slowly or delay a process on purpose, thereby impeding it.

The committee is dragging its feet on making a decision.

Informal

"Bottleneck"

A point in a process where progress is impeded due to limited resources.

The shipping department is the bottleneck in our production line.

Neutral

"Stumbling block"

An obstacle that impedes progress or causes difficulty.

The price of the house was the main stumbling block in the negotiations.

Neutral

"In the way"

Physically or metaphorically impeding movement or progress.

I'm sorry, am I in the way of your work?

Informal

"Tie someone's hands"

To prevent or impede someone from acting as they wish due to rules or circumstances.

The new regulations have tied our hands regarding hiring.

Neutral

"Grit in the gears"

Something small that impedes the smooth functioning of a system.

The minor disagreement was like grit in the gears of the negotiation.

Literary

"Hurdle to overcome"

An obstacle that must be dealt with because it impedes progress.

Learning the local language was the first hurdle to overcome.

Neutral

容易混淆

impede vs hinder

They have almost identical meanings.

'Hinder' is more general and common in speech; 'impede' is more formal and systemic.

The noise hindered my study. / Bureaucracy impedes the project.

impede vs hamper

Both describe slowing something down.

'Hamper' implies being restricted by a situation or burden; 'impede' implies an external barrier.

The snow hampered the search. / The rocks impeded the car.

impede vs block

Both involve obstacles.

'Block' usually means a 100% stoppage; 'impede' means a reduction in speed.

The wall blocks the view. / The fog impedes the view.

impede vs stymie

Both mean to get in the way.

'Stymie' is informal and often means being completely stuck on a problem.

The riddle stymied the students. / The rules impede the process.

impede vs retard

Both mean to slow down.

'Retard' is strictly technical/scientific and can be offensive in other contexts; 'impede' is safe and formal.

The chemical retards the flame. / The rain impedes the race.

句型

The [Noun] impedes the [Noun].

The snow impedes the bus.

[Noun] can impede [Possessive] progress.

The rain can impede our progress.

[Abstract Noun] is impeded by [Noun].

Growth is impeded by high taxes.

To [Verb] without impeding [Noun].

To expand without impeding quality.

[Gerund] may significantly impede [Noun].

Overthinking may significantly impede decision-making.

The extent to which [Noun] impedes [Noun].

The extent to which bias impedes research.

[Noun] serves only to impede [Noun].

The rules serve only to impede innovation.

Does [Noun] impede your ability to [Verb]?

Does noise impede your ability to sleep?

词族

名词

动词

形容词

如何使用

frequency

Common in academic, legal, and business English; less common in daily conversation.

常见错误

Using 'impede' without an object. → The rain impeded our progress.
'Impede' is a transitive verb and must act upon something. You cannot just say 'The rain impeded.'
Saying 'impede from doing'. → The rules impede the process.
Unlike 'prevent' or 'stop,' 'impede' does not take the 'from + gerund' construction.
Confusing 'impede' with 'stop'. → The traffic impeded our arrival.
If the traffic made you late, it 'impeded' you. If the road was closed and you couldn't go at all, it 'stopped' you.
Spelling it 'impeed'. → impede
Even though it sounds like 'im-peed,' the correct spelling follows the Latin 'pede'.
Using 'impedance' for general delays. → The lack of money was an impediment.
'Impedance' is a technical term for electrical resistance. Use 'impediment' for general obstacles.

小贴士

Use for Systems

When writing about business or government, use 'impede' to describe how rules slow down progress. It sounds professional.

Direct Object

Always follow 'impede' with the thing that is being slowed down. Don't leave the verb hanging without an object.

Impede vs. Prevent

Remember that 'impede' is about speed, while 'prevent' is about possibility. If it still happens, use 'impede'.

Passive Voice

In formal reports, use 'be impeded by' to sound more objective and less like you are blaming someone.

Stress the End

The stress is on the 'PEDE' part. Say it like 'im-PEEED' to sound like a native speaker.

The Foot Rule

Since 'pede' means foot, imagine something heavy sitting on your foot. It doesn't stop you from moving, but it slows you down.

Legal Use

If you are reading about law, 'impede' often refers to interfering with the police or a court case.

Switch it Up

If you have used 'impede' once, try 'hinder' or 'hamper' next time to keep your writing interesting.

Common Pairs

Memorize 'impede progress' and 'impede growth.' These are the two most common ways the word is used.

No 'From'

Never say 'impede from.' Just say 'impede the progress' or 'impede the person.' This is a very common learner error.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'PEDestrian' (walker) being 'IMprisoned' by heavy shoes. The 'IM-PEDE' makes the 'PEDestrian' slow down.

视觉联想

Imagine a runner trying to sprint through a giant bowl of thick, sticky pudding. The pudding is 'impeding' their legs.

Word Web

Slow down Obstacle Delay Friction Progress Hinder Red Tape Barrier

挑战

Try to use 'impede' in three different contexts today: one about your work, one about the weather, and one about a physical object in your house.

词源

The word 'impede' comes from the Latin verb 'impedire,' which is formed from 'in-' (into/upon) and 'pes' (foot). It literally means 'to shackle the feet' or 'to entangle the feet.'

原始含义： To catch the feet in a snare or shackle, making movement difficult or impossible.

It belongs to the Indo-European language family, specifically the Italic branch leading to Latin and then into Middle English via Old French.

文化背景

The word is neutral and safe to use in all professional and social settings.

The word is frequently used in formal news broadcasts (BBC, CNN) to describe economic or political delays.

In sports, 'impeding' is a specific foul in the FIFA Laws of the Game. Legal documents often use 'impede' to describe interference with justice. Scientific papers use it to describe the effect of inhibitors on reactions.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Traffic and Logistics

impede the flow of traffic
impede delivery times
impede the supply chain
impede movement through the city

Business and Economics

impede economic growth
impede innovation
impede the expansion of the company
impede productivity

Legal and Law Enforcement

impede an investigation
impede the administration of justice
impede an officer in the line of duty
impede legal proceedings

Science and Medicine

impede the growth of bacteria
impede blood flow
impede a chemical reaction
impede the healing process

Education and Learning

impede academic progress
impede the learning process
impede a student's development
impede concentration

对话开场白

"What are some of the main factors that you think impede your productivity at work?"

"Do you believe that too many regulations impede the growth of small businesses in your country?"

"Has bad weather ever seriously impeded your travel plans for an important event?"

"In your opinion, does social media facilitate or impede genuine human connection?"

"What is the biggest obstacle that currently impedes your progress in learning English?"

日记主题

Reflect on a time when a lack of confidence impeded your ability to achieve a goal. How did you overcome it?

Write about a systemic issue in your city (like traffic or bureaucracy) that impedes the daily lives of citizens.

Discuss whether you think technology is more likely to facilitate or impede our focus on long-term projects.

Describe a physical journey you took where obstacles impeded your progress. How did you feel during the delay?

Think about your current learning goals. What are the 'impediments' you face, and how can you remove them?

常见问题

10 个问题

It is generally negative because it describes a delay or obstruction. However, in science, it can be positive, such as when a drug 'impedes' the growth of a virus.

No, that is a common mistake. You should use 'prevent from' or just 'impede' with a direct object. Correct: 'The rain impeded our walk.' Incorrect: 'The rain impeded us from walking.'

'Hinder' is more common in everyday speech and can be used for small personal delays. 'Impede' is more formal and is often used for larger systems or physical obstructions.

Yes, it is used frequently in both American and British English, especially in formal writing, news, and professional environments.

The most common noun form is 'impediment,' which refers to a hindrance or obstruction. 'Impedance' is a technical term used in physics.

Yes, you can impede a person's progress or movement. 'The crowd impeded the runner.' It is often used in sports fouls.

Yes, it is classified as a C1 word because of its formal register and the precision it offers compared to simpler words like 'slow down'.

Yes, a physical object can impede another physical object. 'The narrow pipe impedes the water flow.'

Common adverbs include 'seriously,' 'significantly,' 'greatly,' 'partially,' and 'inadvertently.'

Think of the word 'pedal.' Both come from the Latin root for 'foot.' If you can remember 'pedal,' you can remember the 'pede' in 'impede'.