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

How to Talk to Your Child About Tutoring One stumbling block parents may encounter in their journey towards better academic outcomes for their children is resistance or lack of interest. —Danielle Barreras, Miami Herald, 10 Feb. 2025

The capital has long been a stumbling block for the BJP electoral juggernaut, which has rolled across much of India over the past decade, with the party last holding power there in 1998. —Jay Ganglani, CNN, 9 Feb. 2025

Life’s journey is not perfect, so don’t be surprised when stumbling blocks show up. —Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

Five years after the fast-fashion chain’s first Chapter 11 filing, the retail outposts remain a key stumbling block. —Vicki M. Young, Sourcing Journal, 6 Feb. 2025

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