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

Joanne and Noah scarcely clash, and even a midseason episode where Joanne’s attraction to Noah is threatened by his eagerness to please her parents barely registers as a stumbling block. —Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 26 Sep. 2024

Williams’ €58m buyout clause, which La Liga rules state must be paid in a single lump sum up front, was another stumbling block. —Liam Twomey, The Athletic, 11 Aug. 2024

The England international’s £325,000-a-week wages would be a stumbling block too. —Jack Pitt-Brooke, The Athletic, 26 Dec. 2024

Niccol diagnosed Starbucks’ extensive menu as a stumbling block to this goal and plans to cull elaborate drinks and some menu items. —Bysasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 27 Nov. 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