stumbling-block: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘stumbling-block’ mean?
The idiom "stumbling-block" refers to an obstacle or difficulty that hinders progress or success.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom meaning an unrealistic or unattainable desire/expectation, often used to convey someone wanting something that is impossible to obtain.
According to my extensive research and knowledge about idioms, I have gathered several facts regarding the idiom "the moon on a stick." Here are the key facts:
The idiom "teething troubles" is used to describe the initial difficulties or problems that arise during the early stages of a project or endeavor.
The idiom "teething trouble" refers to initial difficulties or problems that arise when starting something new or implementing a new system, similar to the discomfort and challenges experienced by a baby when their teeth are growing.
An idiom that refers to the difficulties or setbacks experienced at the initial stages of a new project, process, or endeavor.
The idiom "teething problem" is commonly used in English to describe the difficulties or issues that arise when a new product, system, or process is introduced. It originated from the literal meaning of the term "teething," which refers to the process of a baby's teeth emerging through the gums.
The idiom "stump it" means to be completely unable to answer a question or solve a problem. It is often used to refer to a situation where someone is left speechless or puzzled, unable to come up with a response or solution.
The idiom "stump it" is a relatively uncommon phrase in American English. It is primarily used in informal contexts and is often heard in regional dialects.
The idiom "stuck in the mud" means being in a difficult or stagnant situation, unable to make progress or move forward.
The idiom "stuck in the mud" has several meanings and origins.
The idiom "stop someone in their tracks" means to halt or interrupt someone suddenly, causing them to pause or cease their current action or thought. This expression implies a strong, unexpected impact or surprise that prevents further progress or movement.
The idiom "stonewall" means to refuse to answer or cooperate, often by deliberately withholding information or obstructing progress.
The idiom "stick in the mud" refers to a person who is resistant to change or new ideas. They prefer to stick to traditional or outdated ways of doing things, often hindering progress or innovation.
Uncovering Obstacles
The idiomatic expression "stumbling-block" has an interesting history and a specific meaning in modern usage. Derived from its literal meaning, the phrase has evolved over time to convey a metaphorical sense that describes an obstacle or impediment that hinders progress or success.
This idiom dates back to biblical times and can be traced to the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. In Isaiah 8:14, it is written, "And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel." This passage refers to the belief that the Messiah would serve as a refuge, but also act as a stumbling block for those who rejected him.
The phrase gained prominence through its inclusion in biblical texts and continued to be used throughout history, finding its way into various literary works. In Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," the character Polonius uses the term stumbling-block to describe a person's flaw or hindrance. This usage further solidified the idiomatic sense of the expression.
In modern usage, a stumbling-block refers to any obstacle or difficulty that prevents progress or causes one to falter. It can be related to personal challenges, external circumstances, or even societal constraints. This idiom is often used figuratively to describe a variety of situations where an obstacle becomes a significant barrier to success. It can be compared to the idiom "bump in the road," which similarly describes a small obstacle or setback that disrupts progress.
One possible explanation for the popularity and widespread usage of this phrase is its vivid imagery, which effectively conveys the essence of impediments and obstructions. The visual of stumbling over a block is relatable, and the metaphorical extension to other areas of life allows people to easily grasp its meaning.
It is worth noting that the idiom is not typically associated with physical stumbling or tripping over objects in a literal sense. Instead, it denotes the metaphorical experience of encountering an obstacle that disrupts progress or achievement, often on a psychological or emotional level.
Furthermore, the idiomatic expression "stumbling-block" has become deeply ingrained in English language and culture. It is commonly used in various contexts, including personal relationships, business, and other areas where challenges and obstacles are encountered. Similarly, the idiom "bump in the road" is also used to describe small obstacles or setbacks that are encountered along the way.
While the idiom clearly conveys the concept of encountering impediments, it does not provide guidance on how to overcome them. This aspect of the phrase leaves room for interpretation and exploration, allowing individuals to perceive their stumbling blocks in different ways and find unique solutions. Similarly, the idiom "bump in the road" does not offer specific solutions, but instead emphasizes the temporary nature of the obstacles encountered.
The idiomatic expression "stumbling-block" has a rich history originating from biblical texts. It has evolved over time to convey a metaphorical meaning of obstacles or hindrances that impede progress or success. This widely used idiom is deeply ingrained in the English language and culture, offering a vivid and relatable image of encountering impediments. While it does not prescribe solutions, its open-ended nature allows for individual interpretation and reflection on overcoming stumbling-blocks in various aspects of life. Additionally, the idiom "bump in the road" provides a similar description of small obstacles or setbacks that are encountered along the way.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "stumbling-block" can be used in a sentence:
- He refuses to learn English, and it has become a stumbling-block in his career advancement.
- The lack of communication between the team members is a major stumbling-block to the project's success.
- Her fear of public speaking has always been a stumbling-block in her aspirations to become a politician.
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