When you want to prevent someone or something from entering an area, or you need to close access to a road or a street, you might use the phrase "block off". This refers to the act of obstructing an area or a pathway so that it can no longer be accessed. However, there are several synonyms you can use instead of "block off" to convey the same meaning. These include "bar", "barricade", "close", "shut off", "cut off", "seal off", "fence off", and "hem in". Each of these alternatives can help you to describe the act of restricting access to an area or pathway in a varied and engaging manner.