a stumbling block for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stumbling block for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that hinders progress or creates an obstacle in a situation or process. Example: "The lack of funding has become a stumbling block for the project's development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But the continuing secrecy around the drone program remains a stumbling block for some advocates.

The New York Times

A stumbling block for any deal is the issue of client conflicts, Mr. Thomas said.

The New York Times

This proved a stumbling block for Samanthi, who presents the breakfast show on Bauer's newly re-launched Q Radio.

Independent

The film's themes of puberty and (at least implicit) child sexuality may make Evolution a stumbling block for some viewers.

The Guardian - Film

This remains a stumbling block for Amazon and other companies as it means they would only be able to deliver items within 1,600ft of their warehouses.

Independent

Hulsizer is negotiating with the city of Glendale, Ariz., over the lease to Jobing.com Arena, a stumbling block for previous prospective buyers.

The New York Times - Sports

Diesel engine options typically add $1,000 or more to the price of a car, a stumbling block for buyers of economy cars.

The New York Times

That proved a stumbling block for some of Ometria's customers.

TechCrunch

A stumbling block for early VR adopters is really the lack of content.

TechCrunch

The incompetency of conventional single-phase electrode materials remains a stumbling block for making further breakthroughs in high-performance supercapacitors.

Electrochimica Acta

Two of the striking accomplishments of the programme were in areas that had proved a stumbling block for atomism, namely, thermal dissociation and chemical affinity.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a stumbling block for", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being hindered or obstructed. Be specific about the impact of the "stumbling block".

Common error

While "a stumbling block for" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in very informal settings. Simpler terms like "problem" or "issue" might be more appropriate for casual conversation or writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stumbling block for" functions as a predicative nominal, identifying something as an obstacle or impediment. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes something that hinders progress. Examples show it used to describe issues ranging from financial constraints to technical limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a stumbling block for" effectively denotes an impediment or obstacle hindering progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While suitable for neutral to professional registers, simpler alternatives might be preferable in informal contexts. Its prevalence across news, science, and business domains underscores its utility in describing significant challenges. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the impacted area. Remember it is more suitable for formal writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an impediment to

Replaces "stumbling block" with "impediment", suggesting a more formal and significant obstacle.

an obstacle to

Uses "obstacle" instead of "stumbling block", a more direct and common synonym.

a hurdle for

Substitutes "stumbling block" with "hurdle", implying a challenge that needs to be overcome.

a barrier to

Replaces "stumbling block" with "barrier", suggesting something that prevents progress.

a hindrance to

Uses "hindrance" in place of "stumbling block", indicating something that delays or obstructs.

a snag for

Employs "snag" instead of "stumbling block", suggesting a minor but unexpected problem.

a difficulty for

Replaces "stumbling block" with a more general term, "difficulty", indicating a problem.

a challenge to

Uses "challenge" instead of "stumbling block", framing the issue as something that requires effort to overcome.

an obstruction to

Substitutes "stumbling block" with "obstruction", suggesting a physical or figurative blockage.

a complication for

Replaces "stumbling block" with "complication", indicating an element that makes something more complex.

FAQs

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

You can use "a stumbling block for" to describe something that is preventing progress or creating difficulties. For example, "The lack of funding is a stumbling block for the project."

What are some alternatives to "a stumbling block for"?

Alternatives include "an obstacle to", "a hindrance to", or "an impediment to", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to use "obstacle" or "a stumbling block for"?

"Obstacle" is a more direct and common term. "A stumbling block for" adds a slightly more figurative nuance, suggesting something that causes someone to hesitate or falter. The best choice depends on the specific context and the tone you want to convey.

Can "a stumbling block for" be used in both formal and informal writing?

While generally acceptable, "a stumbling block for" is more suited for formal and neutral writing. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "problem" or "issue".