a few obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

"a few obstacles" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a small number of challenges or difficulties that one may face in achieving a goal or completing a task. Example: Despite facing a few obstacles, we were able to successfully launch our new product on schedule.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A few obstacles remain.

The Economist

There are a few obstacles, however.

The New York Times

There were a few obstacles.

The Guardian - Music

Nagasu, 16, had a few obstacles come her way.

The New York Times

The Ravens still have a few obstacles to worry about.

The New York Times - Sports

But a few obstacles still stand in the way.

The New York Times

There were a few obstacles to the mastication.

The New York Times - Books

"She's obviously had to overcome quite a few obstacles to get back to the top.

The New York Times - Sports

A deal that looked imminent now has a few obstacles facing it.

The New York Times - Sports

Presidents cannot control everything in their second terms, and President Obama has a few obstacles that are special to him.

The New York Times

World Tour Soccer throws in a few obstacles that professional soccer players don't have to deal with.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a few obstacles", consider the context to determine if a more specific term (e.g., "challenges", "impediments", or "hurdles") would be more appropriate.

Common error

While "a few obstacles" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated synonyms to enhance clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few obstacles" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It identifies a limited number of difficulties or challenges. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a few obstacles" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a limited number of challenges or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the examples demonstrate its frequent use across diverse sources, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While generally neutral in register, more precise or formal synonyms may be preferable in specific writing contexts. When using "a few obstacles", consider the specific nuance you want to convey and whether terms like "a few challenges", "a few impediments", or "a few hurdles" might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a few impediments

Replaces "obstacles" with a more formal synonym, suggesting hindrances or obstructions.

a few barriers

Highlights obstructions that impede progress or access.

a few challenges

Substitutes "obstacles" with a more positive and motivational term, implying opportunities for growth.

a few hurdles

Uses a metaphor for obstacles that must be overcome, often in a competitive context.

a few bumps in the road

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey minor difficulties or setbacks.

a few troubles

Replaces "obstacles" with a more general term for problems or difficulties.

a few objections

Highlights potential disagreements or opposing viewpoints as difficulties.

a few constraints

Focuses on limitations or restrictions that act as challenges.

a few bottlenecks

Emphasizes specific points of congestion or delay in a process.

a few factors

Shifts the focus to elements or considerations that complicate a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a few obstacles" in a sentence?

You can use "a few obstacles" to describe challenges or difficulties one might face, such as: "Despite "a few obstacles", the project was successfully completed."

What can I say instead of "a few obstacles"?

You can use alternatives like "a few challenges", "a few impediments", or "a few hurdles" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a few obstacles" or "some obstacles"?

Both "a few obstacles" and "some obstacles" are acceptable, but "a few" implies a smaller, more specific number of challenges than "some".

How formal is the phrase "a few obstacles"?

The phrase "a few obstacles" is generally considered neutral and suitable for most contexts, but more formal synonyms might be preferable in academic or professional writing.