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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


impediment

noun

Definition: an impairment of function or an obstacle or block to progress--a hindrance

Synonyms: obstacle, hindrance, encumbrance, difficulty, restriction

Antonyms: help, assistance

Tips: The word impediment is sometimes heard in the term "speech impediment," which refers to a lisp, stutter, or other difficulty or impairment in speaking. Impediment can also refer to any obstacle that slows down progress. See hindrance for a discussion on the difference between hindrance, impediment, and encumbrance. The related verb impede means "to slow down or cause problems."

Usage Examples:

James Earl Jones overcame a childhood speech impediment to become one of Hollywood's most famous voices. (difficulty)

The need to obtain a permit from the city is proving to be a major impediment to the completion of our home's renovation. (hindrance)

Although he is shy, he has not allowed his shyness to impede his ability to be a great salesman. (slow down, hinder) verb

In a number of African countries, civil war has been a major impediment to progress. (hindrance, obstacle)


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