block
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 5I 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.
The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.
The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.
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
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
I decided to walk around the block to clear my head before the meeting.
everydayI decided to walk around the block to clear my head before the meeting.
The proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.
formalThe proposed infrastructure project will require the removal of several residential blocks.
I've got a total mental block and just can't remember where I put my keys.
informalI've got a total mental block and just can't remember where I put my keys.
The experiment involved analyzing a block of statistical data from the 2020 census.
academicThe experiment involved analyzing a block of statistical data from the 2020 census.
The investment firm purchased a significant block of shares in the emerging renewable energy company.
businessThe investment firm purchased a significant block of shares in the emerging renewable energy company.
Word Family
Common Collocations
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
A 'bloc' refers specifically to a group of countries or political parties acting together, whereas 'block' refers to physical objects or sections.
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
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 Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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