stumbling block

noun

stum·​bling block ˈstəm-bliŋ- How to pronounce stumbling block (audio)
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 Aries March 21 – April 19 Your ego might be a stumbling block at present. Tarot.com, Orlando Sentinel, 15 July 2024 But now, after facing stumbling blocks, admitting his mistakes, promising to learn from them, and coming out on the other side with a profit, Son has turned to a new obsession: artificial superintelligence (ASI). Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 27 June 2024 China’s relations with Ukraine’s allies—both the United States and Europe—are another stumbling block. Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 14 June 2024 Israel's compromise on Palestinians returning home would remove a major stumbling block in negotiations being held in Cairo, but Hamas continues to insist on a permanent cease-fire and the withdrawal of all troops from Gaza, which Israel opposes. John Bacon, USA TODAY, 10 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for stumbling block 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'stumbling block.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of stumbling block was in 1588

Dictionary Entries Near stumbling block

Cite this Entry

“Stumbling block.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stumbling%20block. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

stumbling block

noun
stum·​bling block ˈstəm-bliŋ- How to pronounce stumbling block (audio)
1
: an obstacle to belief or understanding
2
: an obstacle to progress
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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