obstacles were surmounted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obstacles were surmounted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe overcoming challenges or difficulties in various contexts, such as personal achievements, project completions, or historical events. Example: "Despite the many challenges faced during the project, the team worked diligently, and all obstacles were surmounted by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Gradually the obstacles were surmounted and the tunnel brought back to life.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Students recognised that they needed to appeal to active learners, so the initial idea was for a course where physical obstacles were surmounted by reaching the answers to maths problems.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Here's how.

Huffington Post

We predict that as these obstacles are surmounted, the use of miRNAs as clinical biomarkers will become routine.

Genome Medicine

Obstacles that did not demand an aftermarket lift kit and monster tires were surmounted without the aid of a locked rear differential.

BBC

However, there are still obstacles to be surmounted.

Nature

However, for next generation development of rhamnolipid production processes and next generation biosurfactants there are still considerable obstacles to be surmounted, which are discussed here.

Journal of Biotechnology

But if these obstacles can be surmounted, then some animals in the farmyard of the future will indeed be more equal and certainly more helpful than others.

The Economist

In order to speed up disaster relief operations, large obstacles can be surmounted instead of clearing them.

ROBOMECH Journal

A match against former school-mate and WBO champion Terry Flanagan could also now happen, if promotional obstacles can be surmounted.

BBC

To speedup access to inner areas, obstacles can be surmounted with the assistance of carefully maneuvered power shovel arm, instead of removing them.

ROBOMECH Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obstacles were surmounted" to convey a sense of formal achievement, particularly when highlighting the successful completion of a challenging endeavor. It's best suited for contexts where the difficulties were significant and the success noteworthy.

Common error

Avoid using "obstacles were surmounted" in informal contexts or when simpler alternatives like "challenges were overcome" or "problems were solved" would be more appropriate. Overusing formal language can sound stilted or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obstacles were surmounted" functions as a statement indicating the successful overcoming of challenges or difficulties. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "obstacles were surmounted" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, albeit somewhat formal and relatively rare. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for describing the successful overcoming of challenges, particularly in contexts where the difficulties were significant. While "challenges were overcome" is a more common and versatile alternative, "obstacles were surmounted" adds a touch of formality and emphasis on the achievement. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. Remember to use it judiciously to avoid sounding overly formal in casual settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Challenges were overcome

This alternative is a more straightforward and common way of expressing the idea.

Difficulties were resolved

This alternative focuses on the resolution of problems rather than the act of overcoming them.

Problems were solved

This alternative is a simpler and more direct way of stating that issues were addressed.

Hurdles were cleared

This alternative uses a metaphor to describe overcoming obstacles, suggesting a sense of progress.

Barriers were broken

This alternative emphasizes the act of breaking through limitations or restrictions.

Impediments were removed

This alternative focuses on the removal of obstacles, suggesting a clearing of the path.

Setbacks were conquered

This alternative highlights the triumph over temporary defeats or delays.

Roadblocks were bypassed

This alternative suggests finding a way around obstacles rather than directly confronting them.

The team prevailed

This alternative emphasizes the ultimate success of the team, indirectly implying that obstacles were overcome.

Success was achieved despite difficulties

This alternative is a more descriptive and less concise way of expressing the same idea.

FAQs

What does "obstacles were surmounted" mean?

The phrase "obstacles were surmounted" means that challenges or difficulties were successfully overcome.

Is "obstacles were surmounted" formal?

Yes, "obstacles were surmounted" is considered a formal expression. Alternatives like "challenges were overcome" or "problems were solved" are less formal.

When should I use "obstacles were surmounted"?

Use "obstacles were surmounted" when you want to emphasize the significant effort and achievement involved in overcoming challenges, typically in formal or historical contexts.

What are some alternatives to "obstacles were surmounted"?

Some alternatives include "challenges were overcome", "difficulties were resolved", or "hurdles were cleared".