Stumbling Block

Pronunciation: /ˈstʌmblɪŋ blɑk/

Definitions of stumbling block

noun something that causes difficulty or obstruction in achieving a goal

Example Sentences

A1 For some students, math can be a stumbling block.

A2 Learning a new language can be a stumbling block for many people.

B1 Lack of experience can be a stumbling block when applying for certain jobs.

B2 Miscommunication can often be a stumbling block in international business negotiations.

C1 Personal biases can sometimes act as a stumbling block to making objective decisions.

C2 Overcoming cultural differences can be a stumbling block in forming successful international partnerships.

Examples of stumbling block in a Sentence

formal The lack of funding proved to be a stumbling block for the project's progress.

informal Not having enough money was a real stumbling block for the project.

slang Money problems were a major stumbling block for the project.

figurative Fear of failure can often be a stumbling block on the path to success.

Grammatical Forms of stumbling block

• plural: stumbling blocks
• comparative: more stumbling
• superlative: most stumbling
• present tense: stumble block
• future tense: will stumble block
• perfect tense: have stumbled block
• continuous tense: is stumbling block
• singular: stumbling block
• positive degree: stumbling block
• infinitive: to stumble block
• gerund: stumbling blocking
• participle: stumbled block

Origin and Evolution of stumbling block

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The phrase 'stumbling block' has origins in biblical references, particularly in the New Testament.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in a religious context to refer to something that causes one to sin or falter spiritually, the term has evolved to also describe any obstacle or hindrance in a broader sense.