Definitions

stumbling block

NOUN

hindrance

Synonyms

STRONGEST

barrier complication deterrent difficulty drawback hindrance hitch hurdle impediment obstacle setback snag

WEAK

Catch-22 barricade blockage catch clog delay discouragement drag fly in the ointment holdup limitation obstruction restraint road block stone in one's path stumbling stone

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance advantage aid assistance benefit blessing boon ease encouragement help opening peace

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“The state bar case was once a stumbling block, but today it is a stepping stone,” she wrote.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

With that, the stock market’s rally to fresh record highs hit a stumbling block on Monday, as oil prices climbed and confidence around a swift resolution to the Iran war was tested.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

The failure of the Saudi Arabia-financed LIV Golf to secure world ranking points for its events has been a stumbling block since the upstart circuit launched in 2022.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

Soho House’s plan to go private hit a last-minute stumbling block this week, after a lead investor said it couldn’t meet its financial commitment by the expected closing date.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

The writer had hit a stumbling block, that’s all.

From "Spooked!" by Gail Jarrow

stumbling block

Example Sentences

Related Words