obstacles in the path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obstacles in the path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe challenges or barriers that hinder progress or movement towards a goal. Example: "Despite the obstacles in the path, she remained determined to reach her destination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

But there were other obstacles in the path of Labour's would-be revolutionaries.

The Guardian

He had also put obstacles in the path of Michael Golden, whose recent promotion to vice-presidential status was hard-won.

The New Yorker

Far from facilitating and supporting recovery, the system has placed obstacles in the path of those seeking to move into employment.

The Guardian

Shaped by harsh life experiences themselves, the grownups are more likely to put obstacles in the path of the next generation than ease their way.

The Guardian - Books

"Our destination still lies ahead, and we have to proceed prudently so that there are no obstacles in the path to our destination".

The New York Times

As surely as a gardener plants flowers or a mason lays stone, a writer puts obstacles in the path of love.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

In addition, the Sudanese authorities have responded to a mounting crisis by placing obstacles in the paths of relief workers, he said.

The New York Times

If you've read the Book of Job, you know that the Powers That Be aren't above throwing obstacles in the paths of the true believers, be they untimely electricity outages or news items involving deer antler extract.

The Guardian - Sport

Shadowing is caused by obstacles in the paths between the UEs and the BS.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

We must expand the narrative by laying bare the hidden racial biases that act as obstacles in the paths of young people of color who want to go to college.

Huffington Post

There is an obstacle in the path of the South Korean men that does not exist for the women.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about abstract goals or ambitions, using "obstacles in the path" adds a tangible sense of the challenges involved. It can make the writing more vivid and relatable.

Common error

While "obstacles in the path" is a valid phrase, avoid relying on it excessively. Vary your language by using synonyms like "challenges", "hurdles", or "impediments" to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obstacles in the path" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. It identifies challenges or difficulties that hinder progress. Ludwig's examples show this phrase used in various contexts, highlighting its role in describing impediments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obstacles in the path" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively conveys the presence of difficulties hindering progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and applicable across a wide range of contexts, primarily appearing in news and media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. While versatile, it's advisable to vary language by using synonyms like "challenges to face" or "hurdles to overcome" to avoid overuse. Remember to check that you are using the singular or plural form of the word obstacle, to improve your use of the phrase. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate contexts, you can confidently incorporate "obstacles in the path" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roadblocks in the way

Replaces "obstacles" with "roadblocks" and "path" with "way", emphasizing the hindering aspect.

hurdles to overcome

Substitutes "obstacles" with "hurdles" and rephrases "in the path" as "to overcome", focusing on the need to surpass the difficulties.

challenges to face

Replaces "obstacles" with "challenges" and "in the path" with "to face", highlighting the confrontational aspect of the difficulties.

impediments to progress

Uses more formal synonyms, replacing "obstacles" with "impediments" and "path" with "progress", suitable for a professional context.

barriers to success

Substitutes "obstacles" with "barriers" and "path" with "success", emphasizing the ultimate goal being hindered.

difficulties to navigate

Replaces "obstacles" with "difficulties" and "in the path" with "to navigate", highlighting the need for careful maneuvering.

setbacks to advancement

Uses "setbacks" instead of "obstacles" and "advancement" in place of "path", suggesting temporary delays in progress.

hindrances to achievement

Replaces "obstacles" with "hindrances" and "path" with "achievement", focusing on what prevents accomplishment.

complications to resolve

Substitutes "obstacles" with "complications" and rephrases "in the path" as "to resolve", emphasizing the need for solutions.

stumbling blocks along the way

Replaces "obstacles" with "stumbling blocks" and "in the path" with "along the way", painting a vivid image of the difficulties encountered.

FAQs

How can I use "obstacles in the path" in a sentence?

You can use "obstacles in the path" to describe challenges or difficulties that hinder progress towards a goal. For example, "Despite the "obstacles in the path", the team remained determined to succeed."

What are some alternatives to "obstacles in the path"?

You can use alternatives like "challenges to face", "hurdles to overcome", or "impediments to progress" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "obstacle in the path" instead of "obstacles in the path"?

Yes, "obstacle in the path" is correct if you are referring to a single barrier. "Obstacles in the path" is used when referring to multiple barriers.

What's the difference between "obstacles in the path" and "obstacles on the road"?

While similar, "obstacles in the path" often implies a more abstract journey or goal, while "obstacles on the road" may refer to more literal, tangible impediments. You can use "obstacles on the road" if you mean to follow something/someone that is close to you, or close to your property, or close to your location.