a stumbling block

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the sentence "a stumbling block" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an obstacle that prevents progress or success. For example: "Lack of education has been a stumbling block for many people in the community to reach their full potential."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A stumbling block may still exist.

The New York Times

Ethnicity seems less of a stumbling block.

The Guardian

But its plans face a stumbling block in Washington.

The New York Times - Tech

Occasionally, though, Mary Ann has been a stumbling block.

The New York Times - Arts

His father proved a stumbling block to the romance.

The New Yorker

But Paris has long been a stumbling block.

The New York Times - Sports

Analysts said that public support could remain a stumbling block.

The New York Times

However, Hargrave believes inertia remains a stumbling block.

The Guardian

The ABM treaty has also become a stumbling block.

The New York Times

The issue of translation itself is always a stumbling block.

The New Yorker

By every account, money is not a stumbling block.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a stumbling block", consider providing context about its impact, such as the degree of delay or the specific area affected.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on metaphorical language. While "a stumbling block" is effective, overuse can make writing sound cliché. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stumbling block" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or an object. It identifies something that impedes progress or prevents an action from being completed successfully. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science & Research

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stumbling block" is a frequently used noun phrase that denotes an obstacle hindering progress. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and research contexts, this phrase effectively communicates impediments in various situations. Alternatives like "an obstacle" or "an impediment" can be used depending on the desired formality and nuance. Avoid overuse to keep your writing fresh and impactful. The phrase carries a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obstacle

A general term for something that blocks progress.

an impediment

A more formal term for something that delays or prevents progress.

a hindrance

Something that holds you back.

a snag

A problem or difficulty that delays or prevents something.

a hurdle

A problem that you have to deal with before you can make progress.

a bottleneck

A point of congestion or obstruction.

a setback

A reversal or check in progress.

a complication

Something that introduces difficulty or complexity.

a challenge

A task or situation that tests someone's abilities.

a difficulty

A state or condition of being hard to do or deal with.

FAQs

How can I use "a stumbling block" in a sentence?

You can use "a stumbling block" to describe something that prevents progress or success. For example: "Lack of funding became "a stumbling block" to the project's completion".

What is a good alternative to "a stumbling block"?

Alternatives to "a stumbling block" include "an obstacle", "an impediment", or "a hindrance". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a stumbling block" in formal writing?

Yes, "a stumbling block" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a well-understood idiom that clearly conveys the idea of an obstacle or impediment.

What's the difference between "a stumbling block" and "a challenge"?

"A stumbling block" specifically refers to something that prevents progress, whereas "a challenge" is a difficult task or situation that tests one's abilities, but doesn't necessarily halt progress.