a massive obstacle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a massive obstacle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant challenge or barrier that hinders progress or achievement in various contexts. Example: "The lack of funding has become a massive obstacle to the project's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He said the "non-existence" of the rule of law in Russia was a massive obstacle to the country's modernisation.

Independent

"Dvořák presents a massive obstacle," Nejedlý wrote in 1913, "which any young Czech musician must remove from his path if he is to make progress".

The Guardian - Music

The Yankees are getting a first-hand glimpse of a massive obstacle they may have to overcome if they are going to win their fourth consecutive World Series in October, and they look overwhelmed.

The New York Times - Sports

A barrier of this kind provides additional security for the occupants of a building without disrupting the functionality of the interior with a massive obstacle.

Construction and Building Materials

Technology is busily transforming lives all around the globe even as you read this but a dearth of reliable electricity is a massive obstacle even in major cities, much less faraway villages.

TechCrunch

Despite the growing importance of the Latino vote, the community continues to face a massive obstacle to building its political clout.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Italy are a massive blue obstacle, for a start; when they ran on to the ball at pace against Argentina and Australia last year they looked a big threat, and they'll undoubtedly pose a challenge this afternoon.

The Guardian - Sport

Remedial measures such as fish bypasses and ladders can only partly compensate for the massive obstacle to swimming fish.

Huffington Post

A truce has been declared by rival sides around the impact site, but international investigators still face massive obstacles.

The Guardian

And he still seems to believe he can overcome the massive obstacles to getting closer to Europe, which his own errors of policy have created, and save what he used to see as his place in history.

The Guardian

Peel's development director Lindsey Ashworth said: "This is a well-deserved reward and justice for all those who never gave up supporting this scheme … English Heritage together with the World Heritage Body Unesco put up massive obstacles to prevent this development proposal getting permission.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase “a massive obstacle”, ensure the context clearly defines what is being hindered. Specificity will enhance the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using “a massive obstacle” to describe minor inconveniences. Reserve it for situations where the hindrance is truly significant and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a massive obstacle" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a significant impediment or challenge. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a massive obstacle" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant impediment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While appropriate for formal and informal settings, it's best reserved for truly substantial hindrances. When using it, ensure the context is specific to enhance its impact. Consider alternatives like "a significant impediment" or "a formidable challenge" to fine-tune the tone and emphasis of your writing. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media, Formal & Business and Science contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant impediment

Focuses on the act of impeding progress, suggesting a more formal or bureaucratic barrier.

a major stumbling block

Implies a difficulty that causes one to hesitate or make a mistake.

a formidable challenge

Highlights the demanding nature of the obstacle, emphasizing the effort required to overcome it.

a considerable hurdle

Suggests an obstacle that requires a jump or extra effort to clear.

a substantial barrier

Emphasizes the physical or metaphorical blocking of progress.

a huge deterrent

Highlights the obstacle's discouraging effect, preventing action.

a tough proposition

Downplays the idea of an obstacle but signifies that achieving something might be difficult.

a major difficulty

General term emphasizing the problematic nature of the obstacle.

a serious setback

Indicates a reversal or delay in progress due to the obstacle.

a key bottleneck

Emphasizes restriction and process obstruction.

FAQs

How can I use "a massive obstacle" in a sentence?

You can use "a massive obstacle" to describe anything that significantly hinders progress or achievement. For instance: "The lack of funding is "a massive obstacle" to the project's completion."

What are some alternatives to "a massive obstacle"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a significant impediment", "a formidable challenge", or "a substantial barrier", each emphasizing different aspects of the hindrance.

Is "a massive obstacle" too strong for everyday challenges?

Yes, "a massive obstacle" is best reserved for significant impediments. Consider using milder terms like "a minor inconvenience" or "a slight hiccup" for less impactful situations.

What makes "a massive obstacle" different from "a large obstacle"?

While both describe hindrances, ""a massive obstacle"" implies a greater degree of difficulty and impact compared to "a large obstacle". Massive suggests something overwhelming, while large simply indicates size.