obstacle

/ˈɒbstəkəl/

something that blocks progress or makes a task difficult

The fallen tree was an obstacle on the hiking trail.

The tree blocked the path, making it hard to continue hiking.

general

A physical or abstract barrier that hinders movement, progress, or achievement.

Language barriers can be a major obstacle in international business.

Difficulty in communication can make business deals harder to complete.

She overcame many obstacles to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor.

She faced and successfully dealt with many challenges to reach her goal.

Obstacles can be physical (like a wall) or abstract (like a lack of resources).

Collocations

overcome an obstacleto successfully deal with a difficultyface an obstacleto encounter a challengeremove an obstacleto eliminate a barrier

blocking progress

to prevent or hinder

Obstacle is often used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as in sports or personal development.

The meaning of 'obstacle' can vary based on whether it's physical or abstract.

From Middle French 'obstacle' (14th century), from Latin 'obstaculum', meaning 'a stumbling block', from 'obstare' (to stand against).

The word is often used metaphorically to describe non-physical challenges.

ob-

against

prefix

-stacul-

to stand

root

-e

noun ending

suffix

English Dictionary