stumbling block

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stumbling block" is correct and very commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to refer to something that stands in the way of progress or success. For example: "The language barrier was a real stumbling block in his efforts to find a job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Another stumbling block emerged.

The New York Times

The stumbling block remains decommissioning.

The Guardian

A stumbling block may still exist.

The New York Times

Another stumbling block is consumer behaviour.

The Guardian

But finance proved the stumbling block.

The Guardian - Sport

But its plans face a stumbling block in Washington.

The New York Times - Tech

Stumbling block?

Forbes

A big stumbling block remains.

Forbes

Stumbling block one.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The biggest stumbling-block appears to be labour laws.

The Economist

But there is a formidable stumbling block Bavaria.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stumbling block" to describe significant obstacles that hinder progress or success. It is often more impactful than a simple "problem".

Common error

Avoid using "stumbling block" for minor inconveniences. Reserve it for substantial issues that genuinely impede progress, or it will sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stumbling block" functions primarily as a noun, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies something that impedes progress or makes achievement difficult. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to denote something that stands in the way.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stumbling block" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a significant obstacle hindering progress. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use in English to denote something that impedes advancement. It's prevalent in news, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating its neutral formality. When writing, use "stumbling block" to emphasize considerable barriers, differentiating it from minor problems. Remember that alternatives like "obstacle", "impediment", and "hindrance" can be used to add nuance or adjust the level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obstacle

A more general term for something that blocks progress.

impediment

A formal word for something that delays or prevents progress.

hindrance

Something that makes it more difficult for you to do something.

roadblock

A direct and forceful obstruction to progress, often used metaphorically.

barrier

Something that prevents movement or progress.

drawback

A disadvantage or problem that makes something less attractive.

catch

A hidden problem or disadvantage.

bottleneck

A point of congestion or blockage in a system.

fly in the ointment

A minor irritation or problem that spoils something.

monkey wrench

Something that disrupts a plan or process.

FAQs

How to use "stumbling block" in a sentence?

You can use "stumbling block" to describe anything that obstructs progress. For example, "Lack of funding proved to be a major stumbling block for the project."

What can I say instead of "stumbling block"?

You can use alternatives like "obstacle", "impediment", or "hindrance" depending on the context.

Is "stumbling block" formal or informal?

"Stumbling block" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's frequently found in news and academic writing. Its formality is considered neutral.

What makes "stumbling block" different from a simple "problem"?

"Stumbling block" implies a significant barrier that prevents progress, whereas "problem" is a more general term for any issue that needs to be resolved. A stumbling block is a specific type of problem that actively hinders advancement.