The noun bloc refers to a group of legislators, political parties, or countries acting together for a common cause.

Block can be a noun, a verb, or an adjective. Block has many different meanings but is not synonymous with bloc.

Examples:

• Cuban exiles in Florida remain a powerful voting bloc.
• "Americans will put up with anything provided it doesn't block traffic." (Dan Rather)
• Margaret lives in Manhattan, just three blocks away from the Hudson River.

Practice:

(a) "Every _____ of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it." (Michelangelo)

(b) As the European Union expands into eastern Europe, it is likely to become a more powerful trading _____.

(c) Jeremy threw a building ____ through the plate-glass window.

Answers to Practice Exercises

Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words