Synonyms of pitfall

pitfall

noun

ˈpit-ˌfȯl 

1

as in risk

a danger or difficulty that is hidden or not easily recognized

buying a house can be full of pitfalls for the unwary

Synonyms & Similar Words

• risk
• hitch
• snag
• catch
• gotcha
• land mine
• kicker
• gimmick
• booby trap
• catch-22
• trap
• hazard
• peril
• joker
• snare
• web
• surprise
• trip wire
• bomb
• bombshell
• bait
• decoy
• lure

2

as in threat

something that may cause injury or harm

one of the pitfalls of ignorance is that people will also assume you're stupid

Synonyms & Similar Words

• threat
• danger
• risk
• menace
• peril
• hazard
• trouble
• imminence
• trap
• snare
• booby trap

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• protection
• ward
• guard
• shield
• refuge
• retreat
• harbor
• shelter
• safeguard
• asylum
• haven

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of pitfall

There are also pitfalls awaiting investors, according to financial advisors. — Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 24 Aug. 2026

Design With not For A common pitfall in inclusive design is developing initiatives in isolation. — Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026

Navigating the pitfalls of online communication — crafting the perfect message, sifting through the endless stack of profiles — can compound the feeling. — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 21 Aug. 2026

The handmade corn cakes come off the griddle lightly crisped with black and brown splotches and avoid the common pitfall of being overly greasy. — Warren Rojas, Washington Post, 19 Aug. 2026