a stumbling block to remove

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stumbling block to remove" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing obstacles or challenges that need to be addressed or eliminated in order to achieve a goal. Example: "The lack of funding has become a stumbling block to remove if we want to proceed with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in cement matrix has been a stumbling block to take advantage of their outstanding physical properties.

Construction and Building Materials

His father proved a stumbling block to the romance.

The New Yorker

degrees is a stumbling block to their ability to develop new methods.

Science Magazine

That lack of bundling had been a stumbling block to an earlier partnership.

TechCrunch

The size of short-read sequence collections is often a stumbling block to rapid analysis.

Bioinformatics

Today, as in Darwin's day, the age of Earth remains a stumbling block to many people's acceptance of evolution.

CBE Life Sciences Education

The City sees it as the "natural buyer" for the rest and, if the Iliffe family is allowed to remove certain titles from the deal (previously a stumbling block to the sale), then it should go ahead.

Independent

A criminal record is such a stumbling block to employment that many states, cities and counties are passing laws to remove the question from applications for government jobs.

Huffington Post

Significantly, the NRL – Australian rugby league's governing body – has confirmed that any fee the Rabbitohs pay Bath will not count against their salary cap, removing the biggest stumbling block to a deal.

Independent

You wisely point out a potentially massive stumbling block to Gucci's continued success: egos.

Forbes

No one really knows why turns are such a stumbling block to so many gymnasts, because, truly, they're not that hard, but a stumbling block they are.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a stumbling block to remove", ensure the context clearly indicates what the "stumbling block" is preventing or hindering. Providing specific details will enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a stumbling block to remove" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler, more direct language unless a formal or slightly elevated tone is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase primarily functions as a purpose connector, indicating the need to eliminate an obstacle. As Ludwig AI explains, it highlights an impediment that must be addressed for progress to occur.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a stumbling block to remove" is a grammatically sound construction used to highlight the need to eliminate an obstacle. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is most effective in contexts where emphasizing the removal of a hindrance is crucial. While it can be used in formal and semi-formal settings, simpler alternatives may be preferred for casual communication. Because there are no example sentences available, further research might be required to better assess the frequency and contexts in which "a stumbling block to remove" is commonly used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obstacle to eliminate

This alternative directly replaces the "stumbling block" metaphor with a more straightforward term for an impediment that needs to be taken away.

a barrier to overcome

This phrase uses "barrier" instead of "stumbling block", suggesting a more significant impediment that requires effort to surpass.

a challenge to address

This option focuses on the need to deal with a difficulty, framing it as something that needs attention and resolution.

an issue to resolve

This phrase replaces the metaphor with a neutral term for a problem that needs solving, suitable for formal contexts.

a hurdle to clear

This alternative evokes the image of jumping over an obstacle, suggesting a specific action to overcome the difficulty.

a problem to solve

This uses very common and generic words, focusing on the problematic aspect needing a solution.

a difficulty to rectify

This option implies that something is wrong and needs to be corrected, which may not always be the case with a "stumbling block".

a snag to untangle

This suggests something is knotted or complicated and needs to be straightened out.

an impediment to negate

This phrase is more formal, suggesting something hindering progress needs to be neutralized.

a constraint to mitigate

This alternative focuses on reducing the impact of a limitation rather than completely removing it.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a stumbling block to remove" for better clarity?

Consider alternatives like "an obstacle to eliminate", "a barrier to overcome", or "a challenge to address" to convey the same meaning with potentially greater simplicity.

Is "a stumbling block to remove" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a stumbling block to remove" can be suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing challenges or obstacles in a project, negotiation, or plan. However, ensure the tone aligns with the overall formality of the document.

What is the difference between "a stumbling block to remove" and "an obstacle to overcome"?

"A stumbling block to remove" emphasizes the need to eliminate an impediment, while "an obstacle to overcome" highlights the effort required to surpass a difficulty. The choice depends on whether the focus is on elimination or effort.

When should I use "a stumbling block to remove" instead of a simpler phrase?

Use "a stumbling block to remove" when you want to add a touch of metaphor to your writing, suggesting that the problem is hindering progress and needs to be addressed directly. For more straightforward communication, consider alternatives like "a problem to solve".