Synonyms of stumbling block

stumbling block

noun

ˈstəm-bliŋ- 

as in obstacle

something that makes movement or progress difficult

the only stumbling block to our move across the country was finding someone to adopt our cats

Synonyms & Similar Words

• obstacle
• hurdle
• obstruction
• embarrassment
• barrier
• let
• interference
• burden
• inhibition
• block
• chain
• impediment
• stop
• hindrance
• handicap
• encumbrance
• load
• deterrent
• shackles
• brick wall
• constraint
• hitch
• balk
• cramp
• clog
• stone wall
• drag
• bar
• brake
• trammel
• delay
• crimp
• rub
• holdback
• manacle
• catch
• blockade
• danger
• fetter
• curb
• disadvantage
• arrest
• blockage
• restraint
• rein
• snag
• hazard
• embargo
• stoppage
• difficulty
• stall
• bit
• hardship
• drawback
• check
• reef
• peril
• hobble
• holdup
• adversity
• cumber

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incentive
• stimulus
• impetus
• advantage
• catalyst
• spur
• edge
• benefit
• assistance
• break
• aid
• help
• stimulant
• goad
• boost
• handmaiden

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of stumbling block

The alternative is asking the majority to accept the inconvenience of having gambling cordoned off from daily life in order to avoid putting a stumbling block in front of their neighbors. — Jonathan Caulkins, The Conversation, 17 July 2026

But the process has been riddled with stumbling blocks – including persistent fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, which threatened to derail US-Iran talks last week. — Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 25 June 2026

Since then, the process has stretched to require four different levels of review, each with a list of procedural requirements that pose stumbling blocks for prisoners seeking help. — Christie Thompson, NPR, 17 June 2026

The talent was clearly there, but there was always a stumbling block. — ABC News, 14 June 2026