obstacles - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obstacles Word Meanings
- something that prevents progress
- a hindrance or barrier
- a challenge to overcome
obstacles Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obstacles Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɒbstəkl/
US
/ˈɑbstəkl/
obstacles Word Etymology
ob- = against + stāre = to stand; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a thick wall in front of you, blocking your path on a journey, representing the obstacle you must navigate around.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Hands on the steering wheel, I push to move forward, but a stubborn obstacle blocks the way. I shift my weight, change my angle, and pull to test a gap around it. The effort tightens my breath, then I adjust and keep going, letting the obstacle become a path I learn to navigate.
Real Context
An obstacle is anything that gets in the way of a goal, but it’s less about a fixed object and more about a potential difficulty you must navigate. It can be a physical barrier, like a closed gate, or a situational challenge, like a lack of time, competing priorities, or confusing instructions. Unlike a mere barrier, an obstacle invites strategies: you can plan, improvise, seek help, or change approach. In everyday use, you might say 'We faced many obstacles on the project' or 'The language barrier was our biggest obstacle.' The word carries a sense of progression—overcoming, not just existing behind something.
Usage Reminders
- • Think of obstacle as a challenge to progress, not just a touchable block.
- • Common collocations: overcome obstacles, face obstacles, present obstacles.
- • Distinguish obstacle from barrier; barrier is often physical.
- • Use with verbs like overcome, surmount, navigate.
- • Practice in projects, travel, or sports to sound natural.
Common Misconceptions
- Obstacle = only a physical barrier.
- Obstacle and barrier are the same thing in all contexts.
- Obstacles must be dramatic or obvious to count.
- You can only call something an obstacle if you remove it first.
- Overcoming obstacles always requires heroic effort.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Obstacles are not just blocks; they signal a path to solve. English uses many collocations with overcome and navigate. Be mindful of barrier vs obstacle, and use obstacle for challenges you actively work to overcome.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: overcome obstacles, face obstacles, present obstacles.
- Remember obstacle is about progress, not just a block you can touch.
- Differentiate obstacle from barrier; barrier is often physical.
- Use with verbs like overcome, surmount, navigate.
- Practice in projects, travel, or sports to sound natural.
- Read or listen for everyday phrases like 'overcome obstacles on the path to success'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'obstacles'?
A.Something that is easy to overcome
B.Things that prevent progress or achievement
C.A type of food
D.A synonym for friends
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'obstacles' correctly?
A.He gleefully jumped over the big obstacles in the park.
B.The obstacles were delicious and nourishing.
C.There were many obstacles in her path to success.
D.She painted obstacles all over her bedroom wall.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'obstacles'?
A.environments
B.barriers
C.activities
D.predictors
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'obstacles'?
A.opportunities
B.difficulties
C.tasks
D.responses
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life situation where obstacles might be present?
A.She faced numerous obstacles during her training for the marathon.
B.A vigorous exercise routine can build endurance.
C.Traveling through the mountains often requires careful planning.
D.Many challenges can arise when pursuing a goal.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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