Synonyms of impediment

impediment

noun

im-ˈpe-də-mənt 

as in obstacle

something that makes movement or progress difficult

tough going for the burros on the canyon trail, even without the added impediment of heavy loads

Synonyms & Similar Words

• obstacle
• hurdle
• obstruction
• embarrassment
• barrier
• hindrance
• interference
• burden
• inhibition
• deterrent
• handicap
• encumbrance
• let
• chain
• constraint
• shackles
• block
• stop
• stumbling block
• load
• clog
• hitch
• cramp
• delay
• balk
• trammel
• drag
• danger
• disadvantage
• crimp
• manacle
• brake
• fetter
• bar
• blockage
• blockade
• holdback
• hazard
• difficulty
• curb
• restraint
• arrest
• stone wall
• rub
• stoppage
• brick wall
• embargo
• catch
• drawback
• rein
• hardship
• snag
• peril
• stall
• bit
• reef
• hobble
• holdup
• adversity
• check
• cumber

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incentive
• impetus
• stimulus
• advantage
• catalyst
• spur
• benefit
• assistance
• edge
• aid
• stimulant
• break
• goad
• help
• boost
• handmaiden

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of impediment

Israel’s example challenges the argument outlined by Bo Becker and other researchers at the Center for Policy Research that an insufficient home market size is a key impediment to scaling up young European companies. — Andrew McAfee, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 2026

Here, too, Sussman assembles a formidable catalogue of impediments. — Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2026

There’s no spark between Gleeson and Frei, and the biggest impediments to the characters’ relationsip are self-imposed (Ned takes himself too seriously). — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 11 Sep. 2026

While San Diego County has no shortage of fast casual Mexican restaurant chains, large and small, Vitaro does not see that as an impediment to Qdoba’s growth here. — Lori Weisberg, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Sep. 2026