see obstacle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "see obstacle" is not correct and lacks clarity in written English.
It may be intended to refer to observing or identifying an obstacle, but it needs additional context to be meaningful. Example: "Before proceeding, make sure to see the obstacle in your path."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

They see obstacles, and they see opportunity.

The New York Times

A less optimistic person might see obstacles.

The New York Times

Where some might see obstacles, the TEAM sees opportunities.

The New York Times

The BMW 750iL can "see" obstacles such as a small child behind a reversing car.

The Economist

In particular, he came to see obstacles as inspirations for opportunities.

The Economist

Its employees see obstacles as challenges that energize them to do better.

Harvard Business Review

It is common to see obstacles in the way of a two-state solution as simply the Palestinians' problem.

Independent

Car companies could create sensors that would help vehicles see obstacles around them, and industrial robots could be equipped with sensors for checking product quality.

The New York Times - Tech

The short answer to your question is that although you see obstacles in the way of getting your friend help, you (and your friend) do have options.

Columbia University

"When you've been an entrepreneur, you seek opportunity in a situation, whereas if you're not you see obstacles or risk or challenges.

The Guardian

See obstacles as opportunities.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace "see obstacle" with more precise verbs like "identify", "notice", or "recognize" to improve clarity. For instance, use "identify an obstacle" instead of "see obstacle".

Common error

Avoid using "see" in a literal sense when referring to obstacles. Instead, focus on the cognitive process of recognizing and understanding the obstacle. Saying "identify the obstacle" is clearer than "see the obstacle".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "see obstacle" functions as a simple verb-object construction, where "see" is the verb and "obstacle" is the object. However, this construction is considered grammatically incorrect and lacks clarity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's better to use alternative phrasings.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "see obstacle" is grammatically incorrect and lacks clarity. Ludwig AI indicates that it is not a proper way to express the act of recognizing an obstacle. Instead, it is recommended to use more precise verbs such as "identify", "notice", or "recognize" in combination with "obstacle". This will improve the clarity and correctness of your writing. Always focus on precise language to enhance effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notice an obstacle

Uses "notice" as a more common and natural verb for perceiving an obstacle.

identify an obstacle

Replaces the verb "see" with "identify" for a more precise and active description of recognizing an obstacle.

recognize an obstacle

Highlights the act of acknowledging that something is an obstacle.

face an obstacle

Similar to 'encounter', this emphasizes confronting a challenge.

detect an obstacle

Emphasizes the discovery of an obstacle, implying a more technical or careful observation.

encounter an obstacle

Shifts the focus to the experience of facing an obstacle.

find an obstacle

Highlights the act of stumble across or discovering obstacles.

perceive an obstacle

Presents a more formal and conceptual way of understanding an obstacle.

observe an obstacle

Highlights the act of watching carefully in order to find obstacle.

become aware of an obstacle

Indicates gaining knowledge or understanding of an obstacle's existence.

FAQs

What's a more grammatically sound way to express "see obstacle"?

Instead of "see obstacle", use phrases like "identify an obstacle", "notice an obstacle", or "recognize an obstacle" for improved clarity and correctness.

Is "see obstacle" considered grammatically correct in English?

No, "see obstacle" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. It's better to use verbs that more directly convey the act of identifying or perceiving, such as "detect an obstacle" or "perceive an obstacle".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "see obstacle"?

It's rarely appropriate to use "see obstacle" directly. In most contexts, it's preferable to use more specific and grammatically correct alternatives like "encounter an obstacle" or "face an obstacle" to clearly express the intended meaning.

What are some alternatives to "see obstacle" that emphasize awareness?

To emphasize awareness, you can use phrases such as "become aware of an obstacle" or "observe an obstacle". These alternatives highlight the cognitive process of recognizing and understanding the obstacle.