Interference with commerce (7) - Crossword Clue
Answer: EMBARGO
Understanding the Trade Restriction Term: Embargo
Embargo is a seven-letter noun that describes an official interference with commerce, specifically a government-imposed ban on trade with particular countries or the exchange of specific goods.
This crossword clue uses "interference with commerce" as a definitional phrase that perfectly captures the essence of EMBARGO, making it an excellent example of how economic and political terminology appears in puzzle construction.
Why EMBARGO Answers "Interference with Commerce"
The crossword clue "Interference with commerce (7)" provides essential solving indicators:
- Interference with commerce: Describes obstruction or prohibition of trade activities
- (7): Confirms the answer contains exactly seven letters
E-M-B-A-R-G-O fits perfectly with seven letters and precisely captures the concept of government-imposed trade interference.
Interference with commerce (7) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: What's the difference between an embargo and sanctions?
An embargo specifically refers to comprehensive bans on trade with particular nations or on specific goods, representing the most severe form of trade interference. Sanctions encompass a broader range of economic penalties including embargoes, but also targeted restrictions on individuals, specific industries, or particular transaction types.
Q: Are embargoes effective at achieving their goals?
Effectiveness varies significantly depending on objectives, implementation, and target nation characteristics. While embargoes successfully interfere with commerce, they often fail to force policy changes, particularly when target nations find alternative trading partners or when regimes prove willing to endure economic hardship.
Q: Can embargoes be enforced internationally?
United Nations Security Council resolutions can mandate embargoes that member states must enforce, though compliance varies. Individual nations can also impose unilateral embargoes, though these prove less effective when other countries continue trading with the target.
Q: How do embargoes differ from blockades?
Blockades involve physical military force preventing ships or aircraft from entering or leaving areas, interfering with commerce through armed presence. Embargoes achieve similar interference through legal and economic mechanisms rather than military action, though both restrict trade.
Q: What happens if someone violates an embargo?
Violations typically result in severe penalties including substantial fines, imprisonment, asset seizures, and prohibition from future international trade. Companies found violating embargoes may face criminal prosecution and loss of export privileges.
