OBSTRUCTED: Understanding its Antonym

To accurately identify the most appropriate antonym for a given word, it is essential to first understand the precise meaning of the original word. An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word.

Meaning of OBSTRUCTED

The word OBSTRUCTED is an adjective. Its primary meanings include:

• To block an opening, path, or passage.
• To prevent or hinder movement or progress.

For instance, if a road is obstructed, it means something is blocking it, preventing free passage.

Analyzing the Options Provided

Let us examine each option to determine its relationship with the word OBSTRUCTED:

• Unhindered: This word means not stopped, prevented, or impeded. If something is unhindered, it is free to move or act without any obstacles or restrictions. This is directly opposite to the meaning of OBSTRUCTED.
• Closed: This word primarily means not open or shut. While a closed path might be obstructed, "closed" is not the most direct or comprehensive antonym for OBSTRUCTED, as an obstruction can exist even if something isn't completely closed (e.g., a partially obstructed view).
• Confused: This word means unable to think clearly or bewildered. It refers to a state of mind and bears no semantic relation to the concept of blocking or hindering, which is central to OBSTRUCTED.
• Blocked: This word means prevented from moving or passing through, or having an obstacle in the way. This is a direct synonym of OBSTRUCTED, meaning it shares the same or a very similar meaning. Therefore, it cannot be the antonym.

Identifying the Correct Antonym for OBSTRUCTED

Based on the analysis, the word that expresses the complete opposite meaning of OBSTRUCTED is Unhindered.

• OBSTRUCTED implies a lack of free movement or passage due to an obstacle.
• Unhindered implies complete freedom of movement or action without any obstacles.

Thus, Unhindered is the most suitable antonym for OBSTRUCTED.