daunting obstacle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "daunting obstacle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a challenge or difficulty that seems intimidating or overwhelming. Example: "The team faced a daunting obstacle in their quest to complete the project on time, but they persevered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Moscow needed to understand that domestic change must include the right to emigrate without the daunting obstacle course so long in place.

The New York Times

Ms. Steinhauser said she thought Judge Ruckriegle had no choice because of the facts that were before him, but that he had nonetheless created a daunting obstacle.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The African Union's plan faces daunting obstacles.

The New York Times

But the attorney general's office faces daunting obstacles.

The New York Times

There is no doubt there are daunting obstacles ahead.

The Guardian - Opinion

But it is also reflects the daunting obstacles women continue to face in the private sector.

The New York Times

She also said service members overseas faced sometimes daunting obstacles in voting.

The New York Times

The report pointed out that Mr Bloomberg would face daunting obstacles in a presidential campaign.

Independent

But in the end, the disparate protest groups face daunting obstacles.

The New York Times

IMPUNITY and euphemism used to be daunting obstacles for graft-busters.

The Economist

Even so, the likes of Alcoa and Thomson face daunting obstacles.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "daunting obstacle", ensure the context clearly establishes the nature and impact of the obstacle. Be specific about why it's considered "daunting".

Common error

Avoid using "daunting obstacle" for minor inconveniences. The phrase implies a significant challenge that requires considerable effort to overcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "daunting obstacle" functions as a noun phrase, where "daunting" modifies the noun "obstacle". According to Ludwig, this construction is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It serves to describe something that presents a significant challenge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "daunting obstacle" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a significant challenge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is well accepted in written English across diverse contexts, including news, science, and business. While alternatives like "formidable challenge" exist, "daunting obstacle" effectively conveys a sense of intimidation and difficulty. Remember to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse for minor issues. Its high frequency and broad applicability make it a valuable phrase in formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formidable challenge

Replaces 'obstacle' with 'challenge' and 'daunting' with 'formidable', both suggesting a significant difficulty.

significant impediment

Uses 'impediment' to replace 'obstacle', indicating something that hinders progress; 'significant' replaces 'daunting' to denote importance.

major hurdle

Substitutes 'obstacle' with 'hurdle', implying a barrier that must be overcome; 'major' replaces 'daunting' to emphasize size.

serious difficulty

Replaces "obstacle" with "difficulty", a broader term, and "daunting" with "serious", indicating the gravity of the situation.

tough challenge

Uses 'tough' instead of 'daunting', both referring to a difficult or strenuous situation; 'challenge' replaces 'obstacle'.

considerable barrier

Employs 'barrier' as a substitute for 'obstacle', indicating something that blocks progress; 'considerable' is used in place of 'daunting'.

substantial setback

Replaces the concept of an "obstacle" with a "setback", which is an event that delays or reverses progress; "substantial" highlights the magnitude.

notable disadvantage

Shifts the focus to a disadvantageous position rather than a direct obstacle, using 'notable' to describe its significance.

onerous task

Changes the focus to the difficulty of a task, with 'onerous' replacing 'daunting' to emphasize the burden.

complex problem

Presents the obstacle as a complex issue needing resolution, using 'complex' to signify intricacy and difficulty.

FAQs

How can I use "daunting obstacle" in a sentence?

You can use "daunting obstacle" to describe a significant challenge that someone or something faces. For example, "The project presented a "daunting obstacle" to the team." or "The climber faced a "daunting obstacle" in the form of a sheer cliff face".

What are some alternatives to "daunting obstacle"?

Alternatives include "formidable challenge", "significant impediment", or "major hurdle". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very daunting obstacle"?

While not grammatically incorrect, using "very" with "daunting obstacle" can be redundant. "Daunting" already implies a significant challenge, so adding "very" may not add substantial meaning. Consider using a stronger alternative such as "insurmountable obstacle" if you want to emphasize the difficulty.

What's the difference between "daunting obstacle" and "minor inconvenience"?

"Daunting obstacle" describes a significant challenge that requires considerable effort to overcome, while "minor inconvenience" refers to a small, easily managed disruption. Using "daunting obstacle" for something trivial would be an overstatement.