la entrave
obstacle
Definition & meaning
Entrave is a feminine French noun, usually meaning an obstacle, hindrance, or restriction—something that limits movement, action, or progress.
It can also mean a physical restraint, such as a hobble or fetter used to restrict an animal’s movement. In figurative use, it refers to a restriction on someone’s freedom or ability to act.
Grammar & Word origin
- Gender: feminine — une entrave
- Plural: des entraves
- It is related to the verb entraver , “to hinder” or “to restrain.”
- The word is historically associated with trave , a bar or wooden restraint once used to limit an animal’s movement.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms depend on the context:
- obstacle : a general barrier or difficulty; it does not necessarily imply a deliberate restriction.
- gêne : a hindrance or inconvenience, often less forceful than entrave.
- frein : literally a brake; figuratively, something that slows progress.
- contrainte : a limitation or pressure, with more emphasis on imposed rules or obligations.
- lien : a tie or binding; more literal and physical when referring to restraints.
There is no single exact antonym. Depending on the sense, possible opposites include:
- liberté : freedom, especially the opposite of a restriction.
- aide : help, when contrasting a hindrance with something that supports progress.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Cette règle est une entrave à nos projets.noun
This rule is an obstacle to our plans.
La peur est une entrave au changement.noun
Fear is an obstacle to change.
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