stumbling block
noun
stum·bling block
ˈstəm-bliŋ- 
1
: an obstacle to progress
2
: an impediment to belief or understanding : perplexity
Synonyms
Examples of stumbling block in a Sentence
Lack of funds is a major stumbling block to the project.
My plans hit a stumbling block.
Recent Examples on the Web
Sullivan and Lopetegui spoke before Tuesday’s session, with a deal for Potter reaching a stumbling block over the length of the contract on offer.
—
Roshane Thomas, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025
The stumbling block here is that humans are biologically inclined to maintain the status quo, which leads to natural resistance.
—Camille Nicita, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024
If not, who’s the stumbling block? — Ed Helinski, Auburn, N.Y.
—Parker Gabriel, The Denver Post, 19 Nov. 2024
But finding the right sounds, words, and phrases in the moment can be a stumbling block for even the most experienced lovers.
—Hanna Lustig, Glamour, 12 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for stumbling block 
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Roshane Thomas, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025
The stumbling block here is that humans are biologically inclined to maintain the status quo, which leads to natural resistance.
—Camille Nicita, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024
If not, who’s the stumbling block? — Ed Helinski, Auburn, N.Y.
—Parker Gabriel, The Denver Post, 19 Nov. 2024
But finding the right sounds, words, and phrases in the moment can be a stumbling block for even the most experienced lovers.
—Hanna Lustig, Glamour, 12 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for stumbling block
Dictionary Entries Near stumbling block
Cite this Entry
“Stumbling block.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stumbling%20block. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
stumbling block
noun
stum·bling block
ˈstəm-bliŋ-
1
: an obstacle to belief or understanding
2
: an obstacle to progress
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