Hindrances: meaning, definitions and examples

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hindrances

[ˈhɪn·drənsɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in daily life

Things that cause delay or prevent something from happening; obstacles.

Synonyms

barriers, obstacles, obstructions.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hindrances	Used to describe factors or elements that cause delay or difficulty in achieving something, often referring to minor or unintended impediments. The constant interruptions were significant hindrances to completing her project on time
obstacles	Refers to physical or abstract things that block progress or achievement, with a focus on challenges that must be overcome. She faced many obstacles on her path to becoming a doctor, including financial difficulties and rigorous exams
barriers	Often used in a broader sense to describe physical, social, or metaphorical blocks that prevent progress or access, typically larger or more systemic issues. Language barriers made it difficult for new immigrants to integrate into the community
obstructions	Primarily implies physical blocks or barriers, but can also be used metaphorically to describe any sort of blockade or hindrance. Often has a slightly negative connotation. Fallen trees and landslides caused obstructions on the mountain road, making travel impossible

Examples of usage

The heavy traffic was one of the main hindrances in reaching the airport on time.
Lack of funding proved to be a hindrance in the research project.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in personal growth

Factors that impede progress or development; barriers to personal growth.

Synonyms

handicaps, impediments, limitations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hindrances	Used when referring to obstacles or difficulties that prevent progress or make it difficult to achieve something. The rough terrain was one of the main hindrances to building the road. Lack of funding is a significant hindrance to the project.
impediments	Typically used for obstacles that slow progress or make it difficult to achieve something, often in formal contexts. Speech impediments can affect a child's learning process. The new regulations might create serious impediments for small businesses.
handicaps	Often used to describe physical or mental conditions that make activities more challenging, but can also refer to any disadvantage. It can have a negative connotation when referring to people with disabilities. His poor vision is a handicap that he has learned to compensate for. Growing up in a poor neighborhood was a serious handicap for her educational aspirations.
limitations	Used to describe conditions that restrict abilities, freedom, or potential. Can apply to personal, physical, or systemic restrictions. Due to budget limitations, we had to cut down on our marketing campaign. Her physical limitations didn't stop her from becoming a successful athlete.

Examples of usage

Fear of failure can be a hindrance to achieving one's goals.
Negative thinking often acts as a hindrance in self-improvement efforts.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from 'hinder', which means to cause delay or difficulty.
It has roots in Old English, where 'hindern' meant to interfere or obstruct.
In Middle English, the term was further developed to describe obstacles.

Psychology

In behavioral psychology, hindrances may affect motivation and lead to procrastination when tasks feel overwhelming.
Research shows that perceived obstacles can lead to increased stress levels, impacting mental well-being.
Developing strategies to overcome hindrances is crucial for personal growth and achievement.

Education

In learning environments, students often face hindrances such as time management issues, lack of resources, or distractions.
Teachers use various methods to identify and reduce hindrances to ensure that all students can learn effectively.
Understanding common obstacles in education can help institutions tailor support for learners facing challenges.

Literature

In literature, characters often face hindrances that symbolize internal or external conflicts, driving the story forward.
Many classic tales, such as Odysseus in Homer’s 'The Odyssey', showcase hindrances as vital plots that challenge the protagonist’s journey.
Authors may use hindrances to explore themes of perseverance, resilience, and overcoming adversity.

Technology

In the tech world, hindrances can refer to barriers to innovation, such as regulatory challenges or technological limitations.
User experience designers work to minimize digital hindrances to make applications and websites easier to navigate.
Cybersecurity measures can act as hindrances but are necessary to protect sensitive information from threats.

Translations

Translations of the word "hindrances" in other languages:

🇵🇹 obstáculos

🇮🇳 अवरोध

🇩🇪 Hindernisse

🇮🇩 hambatan

🇺🇦 перешкоди

🇵🇱 przeszkody

🇯🇵 障害

🇫🇷 obstacles

🇪🇸 obstáculos

🇹🇷 engel

🇰🇷 장애물

🇸🇦 عوائق

🇨🇿 překážky

🇸🇰 prekážky

🇨🇳 障碍

🇸🇮 ovir

🇮🇸 hindranir

🇰🇿 кедергілер

🇬🇪 ბარიერები

🇦🇿 maneələr

🇲🇽 obstáculos

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,687, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22684 pandemic
22685 ministration
22686 competently
22687 hindrances
22688 dominantly
22689 odium
22690 chronicled
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