stumbling block

noun

1. an obstacle or hindrance to progress, belief, or understanding.

   Synonyms: bar, block, impediment, barrier, hurdle

stumbling block

noun

1. any impediment or obstacle

Word History and Origins

Origin of stumbling block¹

First recorded in 1580–90

Idioms and Phrases

A hindrance or obstacle, as in His lack of a degree is a real stumbling block to his advancement . This term originally meant “a tree stump over which one trips.” Its figurative use dates from the early 1500s.

Example Sentences

Daniel Stone on the last major stumbling block—how to raise revenue without using the word “tax.”

From The Daily Beast

Palestinian officials said the address marked the Israeli leader as the real stumbling block to an agreement.

From The Daily Beast

One stumbling block for Rossi will be getting the entire state party behind him.

From The Daily Beast

How I do wish sometimes to give Ritchie a jog, when there is some stumbling-block that he sticks fast at.

From Project Gutenberg

This design reveals a stumbling-block that superficial people fall over.

From Project Gutenberg

Fallacies of this description are the great stumbling-block to correct thinking in political economy.

From Project Gutenberg

Its tenant was apparently somewhat of a scandal and a stumbling-block to the reforming party.

From Project Gutenberg

Indeed, it is America which sets the worst stumbling-block in the voter's path.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• barrier
• complication
• deterrent
• difficulty
• drawback
• hindrance
• hitch
• hurdle
• impediment
• obstacle
• setback
• snag