stumbling block
noun
stum·bling block
ˈstəm-bliŋ- 
1
: an obstacle to progress
2
: an impediment to belief or understanding : perplexity
Examples of stumbling block in a Sentence
Lack of funds is a major stumbling block to the project.
My plans hit a stumbling block.
Recent Examples on the Web
Memorial Stadium, no matter the streaks in play, poses a stumbling block for any QB in his first Big Ten game.
—
Mitch Sherman, New York Times, 14 May 2025
The stumbling block for Chinese brands or shippers currently utilizing de minimis may be the import requirement of the 10-digit HTSUS code, which classifies an item and stipulates its duty rate.
—Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 2 May 2025
However, invasive grasses are not the only culprits acting as stumbling blocks for native plants.
—Hema Sivanandam, The Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2025
Women’s history, too, has been full of stumbling blocks.
—Aimée Eubanks Davis, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for stumbling block
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Mitch Sherman, New York Times, 14 May 2025
The stumbling block for Chinese brands or shippers currently utilizing de minimis may be the import requirement of the 10-digit HTSUS code, which classifies an item and stipulates its duty rate.
—Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 2 May 2025
However, invasive grasses are not the only culprits acting as stumbling blocks for native plants.
—Hema Sivanandam, The Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2025
Women’s history, too, has been full of stumbling blocks.
—Aimée Eubanks Davis, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for stumbling block
Cite this Entry
“Stumbling block.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stumbling%20block. Accessed 20 May. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
stumbling block
noun
stum·bling block
ˈstəm-bliŋ-
1
: an obstacle to belief or understanding
2
: an obstacle to progress
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