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
The Dutchman insisted there would be no problem convincing a target to join Liverpool, but that the fee involved could still be a stumbling block.
—
Gregg Evans, New York Times, 17 May 2025
Be Compassionate with Yourself Giving things away and getting organized have an emotional component that can be a stumbling block.
—Amy Brightfield, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Apr. 2025
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
See All Example Sentences for stumbling block
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Gregg Evans, New York Times, 17 May 2025
Be Compassionate with Yourself Giving things away and getting organized have an emotional component that can be a stumbling block.
—Amy Brightfield, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Apr. 2025
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
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 10 Jun. 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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