a series of obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a series of obstacles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe multiple challenges or difficulties that one may encounter in a particular situation or process. Example: "The project faced a series of obstacles that delayed its completion, including budget cuts and staffing shortages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The book ends with the school completed after a series of obstacles.

The New York Times

The hurdling events combine sprinting with negotiating a series of obstacles called hurdles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But any deal would have to overcome a series of obstacles first.

The New York Times

"Running your own business is a series of obstacles that you turn into opportunities.

The Guardian

But, he said, he sees "a series of obstacles and a lack of determination" on both sides.

The New York Times

You've got to get him from the start line to the finish by negotiating a series of obstacles and jumps.

The Guardian - Tech

In recent weeks, however, negotiations have hit a series of obstacles despite weeks of intensive diplomatic efforts by US officials.

The Guardian

When she decided to leave her abusive husband after 11 years together, she faced a series of obstacles.

The Guardian

A few years ago foreign investors rushed into Ethiopia to lease agricultural land for commercial farming but encountered a series of obstacles.

The Economist

Hurdling, sport in athletics (track and field) in which a runner races over a series of obstacles called hurdles, which are set a fixed distance apart.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Knocking down a series of obstacles is much harder.So far, researchers have developed about 60 experimental wheat varieties with multiple low-resistance genes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a series of obstacles" to clearly convey the presence of multiple challenges, emphasizing their sequential or interconnected nature. For example, 'The project faced a series of obstacles that delayed its completion.'

Common error

Instead of saying 'The team was faced with "a series of obstacles",' use the active voice: 'The team overcame "a series of obstacles".' This makes your writing more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a series of obstacles" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the object of a preposition. It describes a set of difficulties that impede progress. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a series of obstacles" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote multiple challenges that must be addressed, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a noun phrase and typically conveys a neutral tone, fitting for various contexts from news and media to scientific discussions. Alternatives include phrases like "a chain of challenges" or "a sequence of hurdles", each carrying slightly different nuances. While the expression is correct, avoid overusing the passive voice when incorporating it into your writing for a more direct and impactful statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a chain of challenges

This alternative emphasizes the sequential nature of the difficulties.

a sequence of hurdles

Focuses on overcoming individual barriers in a defined order.

a succession of difficulties

Highlights the continuous stream of problems encountered.

a gauntlet of problems

Implies a more intense and testing series of challenges.

a set of impediments

Refers to a collection of things that delay or prevent progress.

a host of difficulties

Emphasizes the large number of problems faced.

an array of setbacks

Focuses on the negative events that hinder progress.

a string of complications

Highlights the complex nature of the interconnected issues.

a barrage of trials

Implies a relentless and overwhelming series of tests or difficulties.

multiple stumbling blocks

Emphasizes individual issues that cause one to lose balance or make a mistake.

FAQs

How can I use "a series of obstacles" in a sentence?

You can use "a series of obstacles" to describe challenges encountered while pursuing a goal. For example, "The company overcame "a series of obstacles" to launch its new product successfully.

What's the difference between "a series of obstacles" and "a number of challenges"?

"A series of obstacles" implies a sequential or interconnected set of difficulties, while "a number of challenges" simply indicates multiple challenges without necessarily implying a specific order or connection.

What are some synonyms for "a series of obstacles"?

Alternatives include "a chain of challenges", "a sequence of hurdles", or "a succession of difficulties". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "challenges" or "obstacles" in formal writing?

While both are suitable, "obstacles" often suggests more significant or hindering difficulties. "Challenges" can sometimes imply opportunities for growth, while "obstacles" typically carry a more negative connotation. Choose based on the specific tone and context of your writing.