stumbling block

Meaning

A 'stumbling block' is an obstacle, circumstance, or problem that prevents progress or stands in the way of achieving a goal. It is often used to describe a specific issue in negotiations, personal growth, or project completion. The term implies something that trips you up but does not necessarily make the goal impossible if resolved.

Examples

• Lack of funding proved to be the main stumbling block for the community project.

  Lack of funding proved to be the main stumbling block for the community project.

• We agreed on almost everything, but the salary negotiations became a major stumbling block.

  We agreed on almost everything, but the salary negotiations became a major stumbling block.

• Fear of failure can be a huge stumbling block when you're trying to start a new business.

  Fear of failure can be a huge stumbling block when you're trying to start a new business.

• The language barrier was a temporary stumbling block, but we eventually managed to communicate.

  The language barrier was a temporary stumbling block, but we eventually managed to communicate.

• Finding affordable childcare is often a stumbling block for working parents.

  Finding affordable childcare is often a stumbling block for working parents.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I hit a stumbling stone during my research.

  ✓ I hit a stumbling block during my research.

  The correct idiomatic phrase is 'stumbling block,' not 'stumbling stone.'

• ✗ This problem is stumbling block me.

  ✓ This problem is a stumbling block for me.

  'Stumbling block' is a noun phrase, not a verb. It must be used with a preposition like 'for' or 'to' and an article.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The only major ___ in our negotiations was the delivery schedule.

  💡 An obstacle that prevents agreement or progress.

  Show answer

  stumbling block

• Don't let a minor ___ stop you from pursuing your dream career.

  💡 A temporary difficulty or barrier.

  Show answer

  stumbling block