stumbling block

noun

stum·​bling block ˈstəm-bliŋ- 

1

: an obstacle to progress

2

: an impediment to belief or understanding : perplexity

Synonyms

• balk
• bar
• block
• chain
• clog
• cramp
• crimp
• deterrent
• drag
• embarrassment
• encumbrance
• fetter
• handicap
• hindrance
• holdback
• hurdle
• impediment
• inhibition
• interference
• let
• manacle
• obstacle
• obstruction
• shackles
• stop
• trammel

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

Right now, in a mathematical collaboration, everyone has to know pretty much all the mathematics, and that is a stumbling block, as [Scholze] mentioned. —Christoph Drösser, Scientific American, 8 June 2024

The United States and its partners need to find ways around this stumbling block in order to forge productive long-term relationships with African partners. —Colin P. Clarke, Foreign Affairs, 11 May 2023

The government’s legal case against many of the Navy officers has hit a stumbling block in the last year or so because of prosecutorial misconduct. —Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 May 2024

Trending Reader Picks Many Haley voters won't back Trump May 23, 8:04 AM Trump verdict: Badge of honor or stumbling block? —ABC News, 31 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

stumbling block

noun

stum·​bling block ˈstəm-bliŋ- 

1

: an obstacle to belief or understanding

2

: an obstacle to progress