A stumbling block
Meaning
Something that causes difficulty or prevents progress.
Origin
The vivid image of a "stumbling block" dates back to antiquity, appearing prominently in various translations of the Bible. It evokes the literal hazard of a stone or object in a path that causes someone to trip and fall, but its deeper resonance was always metaphorical. In scriptures like Isaiah and Romans, it refers to an obstacle to spiritual progress, a cause of moral offense, or something that hinders belief. It signified a difficulty that could lead one astray or cause ruin, particularly concerning faith or righteousness. Over centuries, this powerful biblical metaphor transcended its religious context, embedding itself into the English lexicon as a common, punchy way to describe any significant impediment or difficulty that prevents progress, whether literal or figurative.
Examples
- Lack of funding proved to be a major stumbling block for the ambitious community project.
- His stubborn refusal to compromise became a significant stumbling block in the negotiations.