Definition: a thwarting and distressing situation
Similar words: obstacle, obstruction
Definition: something immaterial that stands in the way and must be circumvented or surmounted
Usage: lack of imagination is an obstacle to one's advancement; the poverty of a district is an obstacle to good education; the filibuster was a major obstruction to the success of their plan
Definition: a situation in golf where an opponent's ball blocks the line between your ball and the hole
Similar words: situation, position
Definition: a condition or position in which you find yourself
Usage: the unpleasant situation (or position) of having to choose between two evils; found herself in a very fortunate situation
Synonyms: stymie, stymy, hinder, obstruct, embarrass, block, blockade
Definition: hinder or prevent the progress or accomplishment of
Usage: His brother blocked him at every turn
Similar words: forbid, foreclose, forestall, preclude, prevent
Definition: keep from happening or arising; make impossible
Usage: My sense of tact forbids an honest answer; Your role in the projects precludes your involvement in the competitive project