B2 noun Neutral

block

/blɒk/

A block is a solid piece of hard material, typically with flat surfaces, or a large quantity of something treated as a single unit. In academic or organizational contexts, it often refers to a distinct section, a group of data, or a period of time allocated for a specific purpose.

Examples

3 of 5
1

I decided to walk around the block to clear my head before the meeting.

I decided to walk around the block to clear my head before the meeting.

2

The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.

The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.

3

I've got a total mental block and just can't remember where I put my keys.

I've got a total mental block and just can't remember where I put my keys.

Word Family

Noun
block
Verb
block
Adjective
blocked
Related
blockage
💡

Memory Tip

Visualize a giant square 'Block' of ice 'Blocking' your path in the middle of a 'City Block'.

Quick Quiz

The main ________ to finishing the project on time was a lack of funding.

Correct!

The correct answer is: block

Examples

1

I decided to walk around the block to clear my head before the meeting.

everyday

I decided to walk around the block to clear my head before the meeting.

2

The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.

formal

The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.

3

I've got a total mental block and just can't remember where I put my keys.

informal

I've got a total mental block and just can't remember where I put my keys.

4

The experiment involved analyzing a block of statistical data from the 2020 census.

academic

The experiment involved analyzing a block of statistical data from the 2020 census.

5

The investment firm purchased a significant block of shares in the emerging renewable energy company.

business

The investment firm purchased a significant block of shares in the emerging renewable energy company.

Word Family

Noun
block
Verb
block
Adjective
blocked
Related
blockage

Common Collocations

mental block An inability to remember or think of something.
writer's block The condition of being unable to create new written work.
block of time A specific period reserved for a particular activity.
concrete block A large rectangular brick used in construction.
city block The smallest area that is surrounded by streets.

Common Phrases

a chip off the old block

Someone who is very similar to their mother or father.

stumbling block

An obstacle to progress or understanding.

on the chopping block

In a position where something is likely to be cut or eliminated.

Often Confused With

block vs bloc

A 'bloc' refers specifically to a group of countries or political parties acting together, whereas 'block' refers to physical objects or sections.

block vs blog

A 'blog' is a website or online journal, distinct in pronunciation and meaning.

📝

Usage Notes

Use 'block' to describe physical units (like blocks of wood) or abstract sections (like blocks of text or time). It is commonly used as a verb to mean 'to obstruct'.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use 'block' when they specifically mean a political 'bloc', or they confuse the noun 'blockage' (the state of being blocked) with the noun 'block' (the object doing the blocking).

💡

Memory Tip

Visualize a giant square 'Block' of ice 'Blocking' your path in the middle of a 'City Block'.

📖

Word Origin

From Middle Dutch 'bloc', meaning a tree trunk or a piece of wood.

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun Often used in the pattern 'a block of [noun]' Can function as a transitive verb
🌍

Cultural Context

In North American cities, 'blocks' are the standard units for measuring walking distances and defining urban geography.

Quick Quiz

The main ________ to finishing the project on time was a lack of funding.

Correct!

The correct answer is: block

Related Words

subsupertion

C1

Describing a state, process, or entity that exists across or connects both subordinate and superior levels within a hierarchical system. It refers to the intersectional quality of elements that influence both the foundational and the overarching structures of an organization or concept.

multiphobfy

C1

A psychological state characterized by the convergence and compounding of multiple distinct phobias into a single, pervasive condition. It refers to the complex interplay where various irrational fears amplify each other, often leading to total cognitive paralysis.

adnavant

C1

Describing something that is moving forward or situated in a leading, proactive position within a sequence or system. It is often used in technical or formal contexts to denote a state of advancement or a strategic frontward placement.

uniscendure

C1

To integrate multiple complex systems or disparate elements into a single, cohesive, and simplified path of operation. It describes the act of unifying various components while simultaneously grounding them into a more accessible or fundamental structure.

enalterion

C1

Describes a state, condition, or pattern that occurs in a sequence of alternating or recurring stages. It is typically used in technical, medical, or formal contexts to characterize systems that shift between two or more distinct modes.

superloqucide

C1

Describing a person or style of communication that is so excessively talkative it effectively 'kills' the conversation or prevents others from participating. It refers to a level of verbosity that dominates and stifles any potential for balanced dialogue.

circumuniery

C1

The state or act of encircling a single, central point or unity. It describes a structural or conceptual arrangement where all elements are oriented toward a one-point focus or central core.

bigravive

C1

Describes a state or entity influenced by two distinct centers of gravity or significant forces. It is typically used to characterize situations where two powerful, often opposing, pressures exert equal pull on an individual or system.

contraclamly

C1

A rare adjective describing a state of being quietly defiant or stubbornly silent in direct opposition to public noise or popular outcry. It characterizes an individual or attitude that uses composed silence as a strategic tool to resist external pressure or chaos.

univadacy

C1

To unify or standardize disparate elements, systems, or ideas into a single, cohesive framework. This verb is primarily used in specialized technical or administrative contexts to describe the process of achieving total systemic consistency.

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!

Start learning languages for free

Start Learning Free