common stumbling block

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "common stumbling block" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a frequent obstacle or difficulty that people encounter in a particular situation or process. Example: "One common stumbling block for new learners is understanding the complex grammar rules."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

This is a common stumbling block for those on the spectrum, according to the psychologist Jay Hobbs from Specialisterne – a non-profit agency finding employment for people with autism.

The Guardian

One common stumbling block was a REIT structure that had a separate management company with its own agenda and interests getting a fee to run the REIT.

Forbes

They must prove they can win consistently, a common stumbling block for young players.

Los Angeles Times

Failure to engage important stakeholders, and failure to reach agreement among stakeholders about how to frame a resource problem and identify its objectives and management alternatives, is a common stumbling block that can impede progress and ultimately undermine a project.

Environmental Management

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The authors illustrate how patching works and point out some common stumbling blocks.

Stanford University

Competing priorities, for example, are the most common stumbling blocks with 41% reporting them.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There are some common stumbling blocks that hold up the void process, such as handling keys and clearing debts on existing gas and electricity meters.

The Guardian

Since they're not as widely seen, the shorts categories – animation, live-action and documentary – are common stumbling blocks, though there's still time to catch the nominees in theaters.

The New York Times

But one of the most common stumbling blocks to making a dramatic career change is a lack of experience in the new field.

BBC

It is crucial for these new graduates to be aware of the common stumbling blocks that many college freshmen encounter, and learn what they can do to help themselves have a successful transition from high school to college.

Huffington Post

Different challenges arise in different projects, but there are also common stumbling blocks; once one member of the class has dealt with such an issue, he or she can share the newly developed expertise.

CBE Life Sciences Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "common stumbling block", clearly identify the specific area or process where the difficulty occurs to provide context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "common stumbling block" without specifying what the stumbling block is. For example, instead of saying 'Lack of funding is a common stumbling block', specify which projects or areas are affected by the lack of funding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common stumbling block" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it denotes a recurring obstacle that impedes progress. It identifies a shared difficulty experienced by many.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "common stumbling block" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe a recurring obstacle or difficulty. According to Ludwig AI, it is observed across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While interchangeable with alternatives like "frequent obstacle" or "typical pitfall", it's essential to provide specific context when using the phrase to avoid overgeneralization. It's considered neutral, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

frequent obstacle

Emphasizes the recurring nature of the difficulty, focusing on the obstacle itself rather than the act of stumbling.

typical obstacle

Emphasizes the expected and usual nature of the difficulty, making it a familiar challenge.

common impediment

Highlights the hindering aspect of the difficulty and its shared nature among individuals or groups.

typical pitfall

Highlights the potential for error or failure, suggesting a trap-like quality to the difficulty.

prevalent hurdle

Suggests a barrier that needs to be overcome, emphasizing the widespread nature of the challenge.

recurring impediment

Focuses on the hindering aspect of the difficulty, highlighting its repetitive occurrence.

prevalent issue

Focuses on the problematic aspect of the difficulty, suggesting it is a widespread concern.

widespread challenge

Emphasizes the broad scope and commonality of the difficulty faced.

major difficulty

Highlights the significance of the obstacle, indicating it is a substantial problem.

frequent setback

Focuses on the delaying or regressive effect of the obstacle, emphasizing its impact on progress.

FAQs

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

You can use "common stumbling block" to describe a frequently encountered obstacle. For instance, "One "common stumbling block" for new entrepreneurs is securing initial funding."

What are some alternatives to saying "common stumbling block"?

Alternatives include "frequent obstacle", "typical pitfall", or "prevalent hurdle" depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "common stumbling block" is suitable for formal writing. It is frequently used in news media, academic papers, and business contexts.

What makes something a "common stumbling block" rather than just a regular challenge?

A "common stumbling block" implies that the challenge is not only frequent but also significantly hinders progress or causes errors for many individuals or groups.