an array of obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an array of obstacles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a variety of challenges or difficulties that one may face in a particular situation. Example: "The project was delayed due to an array of obstacles, including budget constraints and staffing issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Yet an array of obstacles has emerged, from local opposition to a balky approval process.

The New York Times

The newly identified mean flow pattern may be accountable for the initial plume spread within an array of obstacles.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

A computational model is developed to study the effect of coupling of thermally activated and drag-dependent processes during dislocation motion through an array of obstacles in metals.

Acta Materialia

The obtained D is larger than for Gaussian chains (D = 2), and smaller than for 'polymer chain in an array of obstacles' (PCAO) models (D = 3 or 4).

Polymer

While state lawmakers may sweep away New York's notoriously tough rules for letting candidates onto Republican presidential primary ballots, state law still puts an array of obstacles in the way of people who would run for lesser offices, in any party.

The New York Times

After two and a half years of pushing by a fractious opposition, the door to a recall vote on President Hugo Chávez's rule has finally swung open, but his opponents face an array of obstacles that could still stall their effort to end his turbulent presidency.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Moreover, wireless networks must overcome an array of environmental obstacles that do not plague wired networks, including hills, rain and trees.

The New York Times

For someone who studies and teaches Dalton (in my own case, for more than thirty years now), this lingering state of affairs presents an array of vexing obstacles.

Harvard University

One of the show's lead producers, Jeffrey Richards, offered a lengthy explanation on Tuesday, citing Hurricane Sandy and an array of scheduling obstacles.

The New York Times

Validation of the algorithm has been performed by simulation of a wind tunnel experiment on atmospheric dispersion among an array of rectangular obstacles.

Mathematics and Computers in Simulation

But Mr. Johnston, who used sand dredged up from New York Harbor for the rest, had to design around an array of delicate obstacles, including the PATH tubes that cross the site along with the river water intake lines for the Trade Center's cooling system.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an array of obstacles", be specific about the nature of the obstacles to provide clarity and impact. For example, instead of saying "The project faced an array of obstacles", specify "The project faced an array of obstacles, including funding shortages, regulatory hurdles, and technical difficulties."

Common error

Avoid using "an array of obstacles" as a filler phrase without identifying the actual obstacles. This can weaken your writing and leave the reader without a clear understanding of the challenges involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an array of obstacles" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a collection of difficulties or challenges. Ludwig AI affirms its usability in written English. It often serves as the object of a verb, as seen in the examples where entities face or overcome this array.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an array of obstacles" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that denotes multiple challenges or difficulties, as validated by Ludwig AI. While relatively common, it's crucial to specify the nature of these obstacles for greater clarity. This expression is versatile, fitting various contexts from news and media to scientific and academic writing, maintaining a neutral register. For alternative expressions, consider using "a multitude of challenges" or "a series of hurdles". Remember to provide specific details about the obstacles to strengthen your message and engage your audience effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multitude of challenges

Emphasizes the numerous nature of the challenges.

a range of difficulties

Highlights the spectrum of problems encountered.

a series of hurdles

Focuses on overcoming individual barriers in a sequence.

a host of impediments

Implies a large number of hindrances.

a number of setbacks

Focuses on events that delay or reverse progress.

various stumbling blocks

Implies unexpected obstacles that impede progress.

a complex web of problems

Highlights the interconnected and intricate nature of the difficulties.

several points of resistance

Emphasizes opposition and friction.

numerous potential pitfalls

Highlights the dangers and risks involved.

a gauntlet of trials

Emphasizes the demanding and challenging nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "an array of obstacles" in a sentence?

Use "an array of obstacles" to describe multiple challenges or difficulties that hinder progress. For example: "The company overcame "an array of obstacles" to achieve its goals."

What are some alternatives to saying "an array of obstacles"?

You can use phrases like "a multitude of challenges", "a series of hurdles", or "a range of difficulties" as alternatives to "an array of obstacles". Each carries a slightly different connotation, so choose the one that best fits your context.

Is it better to list specific obstacles rather than using "an array of obstacles"?

Listing specific obstacles provides more clarity and impact. While "an array of obstacles" is acceptable, detailing those obstacles makes your writing more informative. For example, "The project faced funding shortages, regulatory hurdles, and technical difficulties" is stronger than "The project faced "an array of obstacles"."

What's the difference between "an array of obstacles" and "a single obstacle"?

"An array of obstacles" implies multiple challenges, whereas "a single obstacle" refers to just one. Use "an array of obstacles" when there are several impediments, and "a single obstacle" when there is only one.