Obstacle
'ɒbstəkəl
Definitions
A thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress.
'ɒbstəkəl
Something that blocks progress or prevents something from happening.
The language barrier was a significant obstacle for the new immigrant.
💡 Simply: An obstacle is like a speed bump on your way to reaching a goal. Imagine you want to build a Lego castle, but you're missing a key brick - that missing brick is an obstacle!
👶 For kids: Something that stops you from doing something you want to do, like a big rock in the road.
More Examples
She overcame many obstacles to achieve her dream.
Poor weather conditions presented an obstacle to the rescue mission.
How It's Used
"The lack of funding was a major obstacle to the project's completion."
"The runner had to jump over several obstacles during the race."
"Regulatory hurdles presented an obstacle to the company's expansion."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
to overcome an obstacle
To successfully deal with and get past a problem or difficulty.
"The team worked hard to overcome the financial obstacles and complete the project."
a major obstacle
A significant problem or challenge that prevents progress.
"Lack of funding proved to be a major obstacle in the development of the new park."
an insurmountable obstacle
An obstacle that is impossible or very difficult to overcome.
"The legal challenges presented an insurmountable obstacle for the company."
From Latin *obstāculum* 'hindrance, barrier,' from *obstāre* 'to stand in the way'.
The word 'obstacle' has been used in English since the 16th century, originally referring to something that stood in the way.
Memory tip
Think of an actual obstacle, like a fallen tree, blocking your path. It's something in the way.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: obstāculum