OBSTRUCTIONIST Meaning and
Definition
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The term "obstructionist" refers to a person or group that habitually engages in obstructive actions or impedes progress, usually within a political or social context. An obstructionist individual employs various tactics to intentionally hinder the completion of tasks or the fulfillment of objectives that are being pursued by others. These tactics may involve deliberately delaying or preventing the passing of legislation, blocking the implementation of policies, or sabotaging initiatives that aim to bring about change or advancements.
Obstructionists often utilize strategies such as filibustering, engaging in prolonged debates, advocating for excessive amendments, or purposefully creating bureaucratic hurdles. The primary goal of obstructionists is typically to maintain the status quo, preserve vested interests, or promote their own agenda, often at the expense of the majority or the common good.
The term is frequently employed in political contexts to describe those who use obstruction as a tool to resist or oppose the initiatives proposed by a ruling or majority party. However, obstructionism can also occur in other spheres, such as workplace environments or community settings, where individuals or groups inhibit progress by resisting necessary changes or initiatives.
It is important to note that not all opposition or dissent qualifies as obstructionism. Obstructionism typically involves a systematic and continuous effort to prevent progress, hinder decision-making, or impede the functioning of institutions or systems.
Common Misspellings for OBSTRUCTIONIST
Etymology of OBSTRUCTIONIST
The word "obstructionist" dates back to the early 19th century. It is derived from the noun "obstruction", which is itself derived from the verb "obstruct".
The verb "obstruct" comes from the Latin word "obstruere", which is formed by combining the prefix "ob-" meaning "against" or "in front of", and "struere" meaning "to build" or "to pile up". In Latin, "obstruere" referred to physically building or piling things against someone or something to block their progress.
Over time, the meaning of "obstruct" expanded beyond physical barriers, incorporating the idea of hindering or blocking progress, whether it's in a physical, metaphorical, or political sense.
Similar spelling words for OBSTRUCTIONIST
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