Which of the following best describes an action that hinders progress?

The term that best describes an action that hinders progress is "hinder." When something hinders progress, it means that it obstructs or slows down the ability to move forward or achieve an objective. In the context of action and results, hindering refers to creating obstacles that prevent effective progress.

The other terms like "facilitate" and "promote" have positive connotations related to aiding or advancing efforts, which is contrary to the notion of hindrance. "Impair," while it suggests some form of damage or loss, does not specifically capture the active obstruction implied by "hinder." Therefore, "hinder" accurately encapsulates the idea of hindering progress.