physical obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

"physical obstacles" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to tangible barriers or difficulties that someone may encounter, such as a wall, a mountain, or a physical disability. You can use "physical obstacles" in a variety of contexts, such as: - In a descriptive essay: "The hikers faced several physical obstacles on their journey, including steep cliffs and rocky terrain." - In a business presentation: "The success of our project was hindered by various physical obstacles, such as limited resources and strict building codes." - In a personal statement: "Despite facing numerous physical obstacles, I have never let my wheelchair stop me from pursuing my dreams." - In a news article: "The city council plans to install ramps and elevators to make the downtown area more accessible for those with physical obstacles." - In a self-help book: "Learn how to overcome physical obstacles and achieve your fitness goals with these simple tips and techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But physical obstacles matter.

Independent

This season, he must overcome physical obstacles, too.

The New York Times - Sports

Many churches and temples present physical obstacles as well.

The New York Times

On TV, producers heighten the reality, adding physical obstacles or psychological pressures.

The New York Times

It uses cameras, laser scanners, heat sensors and satellite navigation to sense other cars, pedestrians and physical obstacles.

The Guardian

Yarab would no doubt have claimed that such inconveniences are merely physical obstacles on a more spiritual journey.

Independent

Regarding the roadblocks in the West Bank, the United States government announced in late March that Israel had agreed to remove about 50 physical obstacles.

The New York Times

The black communities were separated from whites not only by distance, but by as many physical obstacles as possible, the more polluting the better.

The Guardian

For the elderly, the disabled or single parents with small children, such physical obstacles to affordable food can seem insurmountable.The problem of access is compounded by economics.

The Economist

Initially progress was greatest in the open-field areas, particularly the Paris Basin, where there were few physical obstacles to the process.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Excruciating stomach pain and the ovarian surgery and epidural injections that finally alleviated it take up eight candid pages but the inventory devoted to injuries dwarf even the catalogue of physical obstacles preceding it.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing challenges in project management or personal goals, use "physical obstacles" to specifically highlight tangible, real-world impediments that must be addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "physical obstacles" when referring to abstract or intangible challenges such as financial constraints or lack of motivation. "Physical obstacles" should be reserved for tangible, material barriers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physical obstacles" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition, denoting tangible impediments. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "physical obstacles" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe tangible barriers that impede progress or accessibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in News & Media and Science, and is also found in encyclopedic and general contexts. To use it effectively, remember that it specifically refers to tangible impediments, not abstract challenges. Alternatives include "tangible barriers" and "material impediments". When writing, make sure to reserve "physical obstacles" for instances where literal, real-world impediments are being discussed, which ensures clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical impediments

Uses a more formal term, "impediments", to denote the hindering effect of the physical barriers.

tangible barriers

Focuses on the material nature of the impediment, emphasizing its palpability.

material impediments

Highlights the physical composition of the obstructions, suggesting they are made of matter.

concrete obstructions

Emphasizes the solid and real nature of the obstacles, making them difficult to ignore or bypass.

terrain difficulties

Highlights challenges posed by the physical characteristics of the land.

natural barriers

Specifies that the obstacles are naturally occurring, such as mountains or rivers.

structural hindrances

Implies that the obstacles are part of a structure or framework, causing delays or difficulties.

geographic limitations

Focuses on obstacles related to geographical features that restrict movement or progress.

environmental constraints

Emphasizes that the obstacles are due to environmental factors limiting certain activities.

earthworks

This refers specifically to man-made physical barriers made from earth, such as mounds or trenches.

FAQs

How can I use "physical obstacles" in a sentence?

You can use "physical obstacles" to describe tangible barriers that hinder progress. For example: "The construction project was delayed due to unforeseen "physical obstacles" such as underground rocks".

What are some alternatives to "physical obstacles"?

Alternatives include "tangible barriers", "material impediments", or "concrete obstructions", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "physical obstacles" to describe emotional challenges?

No, "physical obstacles" should only be used to describe tangible, real-world barriers. Emotional or mental challenges should be described using terms like "psychological barriers" or "emotional hurdles".

What's the difference between "physical obstacles" and "logistical challenges"?

"Physical obstacles" refer to tangible barriers, while "logistical challenges" involve planning and coordination issues. A "physical obstacle" might be a mountain range, while a "logistical challenge" could be coordinating transportation across that mountain range.