unobstructed
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnɒbstrˈʌktɪd/
US
- /ˌənəbˈstrəktɪd/
Description
- Clear
- open
- not blocked
- free
Imagine standing on a mountaintop with an unobstructed view: nothing stands in the way of what you see. The word means free from obstacles, clear, and open. A path is unobstructed if there are no rocks, cars, or fallen trees blocking your way. A window is unobstructed when nothing covers it, so light can pass through easily. In everyday English, the word is often used for views, roads, doors, paths, hallways, and anything else that should stay clear.
If you want to get a good look at the stars, you need an unobstructed view of the sky. A clear line of sight is important in situations like driving, flying, or simply enjoying a beautiful landscape. The idea is simple: when something is unobstructed, nothing is in the way.
To be unobstructed means to be free from anything that blocks passage, vision, or progress. It describes a state where something can move forward without hindrance, or where vision isn't impaired by any physical barrier. For example: "The hikers enjoyed an unobstructed view of the valley below," meaning nothing was blocking their sightline.
This word is often used to describe physical spaces such as roads, pathways, doorways, hallways, windows, and waterways, but it can also be used in broader ways. An unobstructed line of communication means nothing is getting in the way of a clear exchange of information. In a technical setting, people may talk about an unobstructed signal, beam, or route when there is no object or condition blocking normal movement or transmission.
At its core, unobstructed is the opposite of blocked. Think about a clear channel for radio waves, an unobstructed airway for easy breathing, or an unobstructed route that lets people or vehicles move freely. It can even be used in a more figurative way, such as an unobstructed path to success, where no major barrier stands in the way. Whether it describes a physical space, a system, or progress toward a goal, the word suggests that everything is clear and able to move forward.
Examples
- 1
Scenic view
From the balcony, we had an unobstructed view of the ocean.
- 2
Emergency safety
Please keep the emergency exit unobstructed at all times.
- 3
Driveway
Once the parked car was moved, the driveway was unobstructed again.
- 4
Satellite signal
For the satellite dish to work properly, it needs an unobstructed line of sight to the south.
Phrase
line of sight
a direct path that nothing blocks
- 5
Archive access
The new agreement gives researchers unobstructed access to the archive.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unobstructedadjective