OBSTACLE


Meaning of OBSTACLE in English

/ ˈɒbstəkl; NAmE ˈɑːb-/ noun

1.

obstacle (to sth / to doing sth) a situation, an event, etc. that makes it difficult for you to do or achieve sth

SYN hindrance :

A lack of qualifications can be a major obstacle to finding a job.

So far, we have managed to overcome all the obstacles that have been placed in our path.

2.

an object that is in your way and that makes it difficult for you to move forward :

The area was full of streams and bogs and other natural obstacles.

3.

( in showjumping ) a fence, etc. for a horse to jump over

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WORD ORIGIN

Middle English : via Old French from Latin obstaculum , from obstare impede, from ob- against + stare stand.

Oxford Advanced Learner's English Dictionary.      Оксфордский английский словарь для изучающик язык на продвинутом уровне.