hurdle
word
Definition
A hurdle is something that makes progress difficult; it can also mean a fence or barrier used in track and field races that athletes must jump over.
Usage & Nuances
Very common in both literal (sports) and figurative (life challenges) contexts. In sports, always plural ('hurdles race'). Figuratively, 'overcome a hurdle' means to solve a problem. Can refer to big or small obstacles.
Spanish: obstáculo - valla (atletismo)Portuguese (BR): obstáculo - barreira (atletismo)Portuguese (PT): obstáculo - barreira (atletismo)Chinese (Simplified): 障碍 - 跨栏（田径项目）Chinese (Traditional): 障礙 - 跨欄（田徑項目）Hindi: बाधा - हर्डल (एथलेटिक्स)Arabic: عقبة - حاجز (للرياضة)
Example Sentences
He jumped over the last hurdle in the race.
basic
Learning English can be a big hurdle for many people.
basic
She faced a hurdle but did not give up.
basic
Getting the visa was the toughest hurdle in my journey.
natural
If we work together, we can cross any hurdle.
natural
Sometimes the biggest hurdle is just getting started.
natural