Obstacle Terminology

adjective used to describe something that is not easy to do, understand, or deal with

• The exam was quite difficult and required a lot of critical thinking.
• I find math to be really difficult, I just can't seem to get the hang of it.
• This video game level is so difficult, I keep dying over and over again.
• Navigating through the city without a map can be difficult, but it's all part of the adventure.

verb to prevent from succeeding; to frustrate or thwart

• The plan was foiled by unexpected circumstances.
• Our attempt to sneak out was foiled by mom catching us.
• The heist got foiled by the cops showing up.
• Her hopes of winning the competition were foiled by a last-minute injury.

noun an obstacle or difficulty that must be overcome

verb to jump over an obstacle or difficulty

• The team faced a major hurdle when the main investor pulled out of the project.
• I didn't expect that hurdle to come up during the presentation.
• We managed to jump over that hurdle and come out on top.
• Overcoming that hurdle in my personal life really helped me grow as a person.

adjective hostile or unfriendly

• The new policy was seen as inimical to the company's long-term growth strategy.
• Staying up late every night is inimical to your health.
• Skipping breakfast is inimical to gains at the gym.
• His harsh words were inimical to their friendship, causing a rift between them.

noun a structural crosspiece sometimes forming a seat for a rower in a boat

verb to prevent someone from accomplishing something

• The security measures in place were able to thwart the attempted break-in.
• She tried to thwart his plans, but he ended up succeeding anyway.
• The hacker was able to thwart the system and access confidential information.
• Despite the obstacles, she was determined to thwart any challenges that came her way.