Stumbling Block, A
An obstacle; a hindrance to progress or understanding. Originally, this expression literally signified an object over which one tripped. It so appears in the Bible: “Thou shalt not curse the deaf, nor put a stumbling block before the blind” (Leviticus 19:14). In the course of time, it began to be used figuratively as well, and in the twentieth century, it was turned into a maxim: “Let us turn stumbling-blocks into stepping-stones” (John R. Mott, ca. 1925).
Making Sense of Stumbling Blocks
Related & Similar Terms:
- Hurdle: An obstacle or difficulty that must be overcome.
- Roadblock: Anything that halts or hinders progress.
- Barrier: An obstacle that prevents movement.
- Impediment: An obstruction that blocks progress.
Proverbs & Common Phrases:
- “Every cloud has a silver lining.” – Even difficult situations have a positive side.
- “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” – Turn adverse circumstances into positive outcomes.
- “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” – Success comes from taking risks.
Humor-Filled Quote:
- “Behind every successful man is a stumbling block they trip over.” – Anonymous
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Book: Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday.
- Song: “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel.
- Movie: The Pursuit of Happyness starring Will Smith.
- Poem: “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley.
Turn It Into A Quiz!
### What does "stumbling block" mean?
- [x] An obstacle or hindrance to progress or understanding.
- [ ] A small pebble thrown in anger.
- [ ] A curious type of dance.
- [ ] A secret gateway.
> **Explanation:** A "stumbling block" is any obstacle that hinders progress or understanding.
### Which examples are synonymous with a stumbling block?
- [x] Roadblock
- [x] Barrier
- [ ] Floppy disk
- [ ] Guiding star
> **Explanation:** Roadblock and barrier both connote obstacles, much like a stumbling block.
### Fill in the blank: "To turn stumbling blocks into ______."
- [x] stepping-stones
- [ ] water balloons
- [ ] pinwheels
- [ ] handkerchiefs
> **Explanation:** The phrase means to turn hindrances into opportunities for advancement.
### True or False: The term "stumbling block" has a biblical origin.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** Indeed, the term “stumbling block” has origins in the Bible, specifically Leviticus 19:14.
“In the face of obstacles, let us find the stepping stones to our success.”
🥂 Farewell from Perry Vocabulary
