vs
QUICK ANSWER
"Prevent" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "prevenir", and "impede" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "obstruir". Learn more about the difference between "prevent" and "impede" below.
prevent(
pruh
-
vehnt
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
impede(
ihm
-
pid
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to block)
a. obstruir
We can't put a table in front of that door because it would impede access to the emergency exit.No podemos poner una mesa delante de esa puerta porque obstruiría el acceso a la salida de emergencia.
b. impedir
The government was not able to impede the criminals from leaving the country.El gobierno no consiguió impedir que los criminales salieran del país.
a. dificultar
The blazer should fit you snugly, but not so much that it impedes your movement.La chaqueta debe quedarte ajustada, pero no tanto que te dificulte el movimiento.
b. obstaculizar
How can you work with so many distractions impeding your progress?¿Cómo puedes trabajar con tantas distracciones obstaculizando tu progreso?