possible obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible obstacles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to potential challenges or hindrances that may arise in a certain situation or task. Example: Before embarking on their journey, the hikers discussed possible obstacles they may encounter along the way, such as steep terrain and inclement weather.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Any deal faces a long series of possible obstacles.

The New York Times

Potential disappointment or even failure are just two possible obstacles.

The New York Times

There are, however, two known possible obstacles to Osborne's ambition.

Independent

It then considered possible obstacles and rejected each in turn.

The New York Times

Write brainstorming ideas under the heading "possible obstacles".

The New York Times

List the different steps you'll need to take and identify any possible obstacles.

The Guardian

–What are the possible obstacles in tracking a species' population growth or decline?

The New York Times

Along with the renewed violence, there were other signs today of possible obstacles to renewed peace talks.

The New York Times

Local authorities, he says, are under mounting legal pressure to keep hedges tidy and to remove all possible obstacles to motorists.

The Guardian

The government's first duty, he argues, is "to remove all possible obstacles for the function of free, open and competitive markets".

The Economist

WASHINGTON — Military prosecutors filed capital charges against a former senior leader of Al Qaeda and five other Guantánamo detainees on Monday for their roles in the Sept. 11 terror attacks, but the possible obstacles facing a death penalty case in the Bush administration's military commission system were immediately apparent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When brainstorming solutions, list "possible obstacles" first to proactively address potential issues.

Common error

Do not confuse "possible obstacles" with risks. Obstacles are tangible hindrances that directly impede progress, whereas risks are potential events that may or may not occur. For example, lack of funding is an obstacle, while market volatility is a risk.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possible obstacles" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to identify potential challenges or impediments in various situations. For instance, examples from Ludwig show its use in contexts ranging from business deals to scientific research.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "possible obstacles" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that refers to potential challenges or impediments. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and widespread usage. It appears most often in scientific and news contexts, with neutral to formal register. When writing, consider addressing "possible obstacles" early in the planning process to proactively identify and mitigate risks. Alternative phrases such as "potential hurdles" or "likely challenges" can be used for variety. Understanding the distinction between "possible obstacles" and risks ensures accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential hurdles

Replaces "obstacles" with "hurdles", implying barriers that need to be overcome.

potential roadblocks

Substitutes "obstacles" with "roadblocks", suggesting impediments that halt progress.

likely challenges

Replaces "obstacles" with "challenges", framing them as difficulties to be faced.

conceivable difficulties

Uses "conceivable difficulties" to indicate foreseeable problems.

foreseeable impediments

Employs "impediments" instead of "obstacles", stressing hindrances to progress.

anticipated setbacks

Replaces "obstacles" with "setbacks", highlighting potential delays or regressions.

projected hindrances

Uses "hindrances" to mean things that restrain or impede.

possible complications

Replaces "obstacles" with "complications", pointing to elements that make things more complex.

potential stumbling blocks

Uses "stumbling blocks" to refer to issues that might cause one to falter.

foreseen difficulties

Highlights difficulties that can be predicted in advance.

FAQs

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

You can use "possible obstacles" to refer to potential challenges or hindrances in a plan, project, or endeavor. For instance, "The team identified several "possible obstacles" to the project's success".

What are some alternatives to saying "possible obstacles"?

Alternatives include "potential hurdles", "likely challenges", or "foreseeable impediments", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "possible obstacles" or "potential obstacles"?

Both "possible obstacles" and "potential obstacles" are correct and often interchangeable. "Possible" suggests something that could happen or exist, while "potential" emphasizes the capacity to develop into something. Choose the one that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "possible obstacles" and "unforeseen challenges"?

"Possible obstacles" are challenges that can be anticipated or predicted to some extent. "Unforeseen challenges", on the other hand, are unexpected and not initially taken into account during planning. Thus, they are surprises that arise.