obstacle

[ˈɑːbstəkl]

obstacle Definition

• 1. a thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress
• 2. something that impedes or stands in the way of progress

Using obstacle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obstacle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The biggest obstacle to our success is lack of funding.

• Example

  She overcame many obstacles to become a successful businesswoman.

• Example

  The road was blocked by an obstacle.

• Example

  The language barrier was a major obstacle to communication.

obstacle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for obstacle

• barrier
• hindrance
• impediment
• obstruction
• blockade

Antonyms for obstacle

• aid
• assistance
• help

Idioms Using obstacle

• hit an obstacle

  to encounter a difficulty or challenge that prevents or slows down progress

  Example

  We hit an obstacle when we realized that we didn't have enough resources to complete the project on time.

• remove an obstacle

  to eliminate a difficulty or challenge that is preventing progress or success

  Example

  We need to remove the obstacles that are preventing us from achieving our goals.

• stumbling block

  an obstacle or difficulty that prevents progress or success

  Example

  The lack of funding was a major stumbling block for the project.

Phrases with obstacle

• obstacle course

  a series of challenging physical obstacles that must be navigated in order to complete a race or training exercise

  Example

  The military recruits had to complete an obstacle course as part of their training.

• overcome an obstacle

  to successfully deal with and move past a difficult situation or challenge

  Example

  She worked hard to overcome the obstacles in her path and achieve her goals.

• throw up obstacles

  to create difficulties or challenges that impede progress or success

  Example

  The new regulations threw up obstacles for small businesses trying to compete with larger companies.

Origins of obstacle

from Old French 'obstacle', from Latin 'obstaculum', from 'ob-' (against) + 'stare' (stand)

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Summary: obstacle in Brief

An 'obstacle' [ˈɑːbstəkl] is something that blocks or hinders progress, such as a physical barrier or a difficult situation. Examples include 'The biggest obstacle to our success is lack of funding.' and 'The language barrier was a major obstacle to communication.' Phrases like 'obstacle course' and idioms like 'hit an obstacle' further illustrate the concept of overcoming challenges.