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 stumbling block, says the author Bedell Smith, is that Harry doesn’t seem inclined to apologize.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

The Duffys regarded the bill's failure as a stumbling block rather than a knockout blow.

From BBC • Dec. 31, 2025

But mortgage rates remain a major stumbling block, despite having fallen in recent months.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 21, 2025

The two circuit's different formats had reportedly been a key stumbling block in ongoing negotiations.

From Barron's • Nov. 4, 2025

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

From "Spooked!" by Gail Jarrow