obstacle

noun

ˈäb-sti-kəl How to pronounce obstacle (audio)
Definition of obstaclenext
as in hurdle
something that makes movement or progress difficult stumbling on all the obstacles along the path

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of obstacle Conclusion By tackling two of the major obstacles to effective AD treatment, Zentara aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to the current legacy system in place. — Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 13 Mar. 2025 But those potential counterbalancing forces will have to fight for such an alternative—and take advantage of the obstacles that a more globalized world poses to great powers’ wish to carve it into pieces. — Monica Duffy Toft, Foreign Affairs, 13 Mar. 2025 There’s a current of tragedy running beneath all of the couples here, as the characters create obstacles to their own happiness. — Peter Debruge, Variety, 13 Mar. 2025 In Court Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Clues And Answers For Thursday, March 6th ‘Hamilton’ Cancels Kennedy Center Show Run In Protest Of Trump’s ‘Purge’ Despite these obstacles, female founders demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation. — Geri Stengel, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for obstacle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obstacle
  1. hurdle
  2. obstruction
  3. embarrassment
  4. barrier
Noun
  • The Senate passed the bill in a 54 to 46 vote, with one Republican opposing it and two Democrats supporting it after 10 Democrats provided the votes earlier Friday to advance the measure through a key procedural hurdle.
    — Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The board’s vote fixed the issue and removed a hurdle to Buc-ee’s closing on the deal for the land.
    — Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of hurdle
Noun
  • Since the start of 2025, 26 drivers have been injured in traffic incidents in Missouri caused by foreign objects or obstructions in the road, according to Missouri State Highway Patrol data.
    — Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 14 Mar. 2025
  • Man threatened, attacked latter carrier over several months The Justice Department became aware of Franklin's actions toward the carrier after the United States Postal Inspection Service received a complaint about Franklin possibly committing threats and obstruction against the employee.
    — Krystal Nurse, USA TODAY, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of obstruction
Noun
  • As a further embarrassment, our country voted alongside such paragons of liberty as Belarus and North Korea in voting against a United Nations resolution condemning Russia’s aggression.
    — The Editorial Board, Orange County Register, 5 Mar. 2025
  • Widely seen as a diplomatic embarrassment, the exchange raised concerns about America's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian invasion.
    — Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Mar. 2025
Definition of embarrassment
Noun
  • Moreover, less than 5% of Brazil’s Black population speaks English — meaning Black founders are typically up against a significant barrier to international opportunities.
    — Angelica Mari, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
  • Trump and his administration have been working to break down the legal barriers preventing presidents from removing independent agency officials at will.
    — Kaelan Deese, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of barrier

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Cite this Entry

“Obstacle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obstacle. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of obstacle for Spanish Speakers

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