ran interference
Cleared the path
Ran interference comes from American football, where players block opponents to protect the ball carrier.
In general use, to run interference is to handle obstacles or deflect problems so someone else can proceed unimpeded: She ran interference with the press while the CEO prepared a statement.
The phrase implies shielding someone from distractions, critics, or bureaucratic hassles.
- tackleGear or takedown
- guardWatchful defensive attention
- mediateFacilitate agreement between disputants
- blockSolid mass, or impede
- interceptSeize en route
buffer · insulate · shield · facilitate · intervene · pave the way · grease the wheels · distract · advocate · smooth over · cover · negotiate · screen · defend · deflect · decoy · redirect · bump
ran interferencesabotaged
Deliberately damaged or destroyed
hung out to dry · undermined · obstructed · blocked · hindered
ran interferencestood aside
Moved out of way
stood by · turned a blind eye · looked the other way · stepped back · abandoned
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