Meaning & use
obstacle
Something that blocks progress or makes it difficult to achieve a goal.
See it in a sentence
Lack of funding was the biggest obstacle to completing the research project.
Runners had to leap over several obstacles placed along the muddy course.
A note on using this word
Obstacle can describe both literal physical barriers and abstract difficulties, unlike 'hurdle,' which leans more figurative in everyday use.
Words with a similar meaning
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Make it your own
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