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

Sunday-closing laws were even “greater stumbling blocks,” keeping Jewish commerce shuttered for entire weekends.

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The stumbling block is the UK government has made it clear, including in its manifesto, that it is opposed to another referendum.

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If, as has been reported, Thelwell and Stewart were the stumbling block then the obvious solution is to sack that pair and invite Gerrard back for more talks.

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A dearth of public charging stations was long considered a stumbling block for persuading more drivers to embrace EVs.

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Even if the talks stay focused on logistics, there could be stumbling blocks.

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Related Words

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