surmounting obstacles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "surmounting obstacles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing overcoming challenges or difficulties in various contexts, such as personal growth, business, or sports. Example: "Her journey to success was marked by surmounting obstacles that tested her resilience and determination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The two are accustomed to surmounting obstacles.

The New York Times

"Loss aversion" means we're more afraid of losing what we want in the short-term than surmounting obstacles in the distance.

The Guardian

And that suggests another problem with hardship porn: its insinuation that surmounting obstacles equals acquiring real character, which is ostensibly impossible without tough times.

The New York Times

Surmounting Obstacles, by Elisabeth Pain, 27 June 2003.

Science Magazine

The goals of this PA are deliberately discussed with respect to fundamental challenges, rather than in relation to specific technologies, in order to emphasize the overriding importance of surmounting obstacles, irrespective of the analytical strategy adopted to pursue those solutions.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Talent and leverage would push the narrative and help it surmount obstacles predictable and unforeseen.

The New York Times - Sports

Les possessed a quiet determination to surmount obstacles and achieve his goals.

The New York Times

Like Administration officials recounting the milestones in the bin Laden search, Daniels enumerated some of the now surmounted obstacles.

The New Yorker

Max and the Magic Marker: A side-scrolling game where a player can draw bridges, tools, and other objects to surmount obstacles.

The New Yorker

Season 2 continues as the contestants are challenged to take parkour, in which players use only their bodies to surmount obstacles, as their inspiration.

The New York Times

"Aman is free, at least," Emma observes,praying the child she carries is a son, "freeto range, … to surmount obstacles, to tastethe rarest pleasures.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "surmounting obstacles", ensure the context clearly defines what the obstacles are. For greater impact, specify the nature of these obstacles (e.g., "surmounting financial obstacles", "surmounting personal obstacles").

Common error

Avoid using "surmounting obstacles" in overly generic or clichéd situations. Opt for more specific and vivid language to describe the overcoming of challenges to keep your writing fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "surmounting obstacles" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes the act of overcoming difficulties or challenges. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Science & Research

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "surmounting obstacles" is a grammatically sound and relatively formal phrase used to describe the act of successfully overcoming challenges. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate for highlighting resilience and achievement, particularly in contexts like News & Media and Science. While less common than alternatives like "overcoming challenges", it adds a touch of sophistication to writing. For best use, ensure the obstacles are clearly defined and avoid overuse in clichéd situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcoming challenges

Replaces 'obstacles' with the broader term 'challenges'.

conquering difficulties

Emphasizes a more forceful overcoming of problems.

tackling hurdles

Uses 'hurdles' as a metaphor for obstacles, implying a structured process.

overcoming adversity

Highlights the negative conditions that are being overcome.

navigating difficulties

Focuses on skillfully managing and maneuvering through problems.

rising above challenges

Suggests elevating oneself beyond the difficulties.

prevailing over hardships

Indicates a successful triumph after a sustained struggle.

managing setbacks

Emphasizes the handling and minimizing of negative events.

addressing impediments

Formal and direct approach to dealing with barriers.

breaking through barriers

Implies a forceful act of overcoming limitations.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "surmounting obstacles" in a sentence?

To effectively use "surmounting obstacles", provide specific context about the obstacles being overcome. For example, "The athlete succeeded by "overcoming physical challenges"" provides more detail than simply stating someone "surmounted obstacles".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "surmounting obstacles"?

Some alternatives to "surmounting obstacles" include "overcoming challenges", "conquering difficulties", or "tackling hurdles". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it better to say "surmounting obstacles" or "overcoming obstacles"?

Both "surmounting obstacles" and "overcoming obstacles" are correct and convey a similar meaning. "Overcoming obstacles" is more common, while "surmounting obstacles" can add a slightly more formal or elevated tone.

In what situations is "surmounting obstacles" most appropriate?

"Surmounting obstacles" is appropriate in situations where individuals or groups have successfully dealt with significant challenges. It is often used in narratives of personal growth, achievement, and resilience.