Hitches: meaning, definitions and examples

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hitches

 

[ˈhɪtʃɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a situation

Problems or difficulties that cause delays or interruptions in a process or plan.

Synonyms

hindrance, obstacle, snag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hitches

Often used to describe small, unexpected problems or delays that temporarily halt progress. Usually considered minor and solvable.

  • We had a few hitches with the projector, but the presentation went well overall.
  • The plan went off without any hitches.
obstacle

Used to describe a significant barrier or difficulty that one must overcome to achieve a goal. Often implies a more serious or substantial challenge compared to hitches.

  • The biggest obstacle to achieving their goal was securing funding.
  • We must overcome these obstacles to succeed.
hindrance

Refers to something that makes a task or process difficult but not impossible. It generally emphasizes the obstruction's persistence rather than its temporary nature.

  • His lack of experience was a hindrance to completing the project on time.
  • The heavy rain was a hindrance to our outdoor event.
snag

Typically refers to an unexpected problem or difficulty that can cause a brief delay or interruption. Often used in an informal setting, similar to 'hitches' but frequently implying something less serious.

  • We hit a small snag with the software installation.
  • There was a snag with our travel plans, but we fixed it quickly.

Examples of usage

  • There were some hitches in the plan, but overall it was successful.
  • Technical hitches delayed the start of the event.
  • The project was completed without any major hitches.
Context #2 | Verb

a trailer

To attach or fasten a trailer or something to a vehicle.

Synonyms

attach, connect, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hitches

Use 'hitches' when referring to attaching or fastening something temporarily, typically using a rope or strap. It can also refer to a minor problem or interruption.

  • He hitches the horse to the post
  • There were no hitches during the meeting
attach

Attach is suitable when referring to joining or fastening something to another. It is used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • Please attach the document to your email
  • The bike rack attaches to the car easily
connect

Connect is best for joining two or more things so that they work together or communicate. It can be used in physical, digital, or emotional contexts.

  • Connect the cables to the TV
  • We need to connect these two departments
secure

Secure is often used when making sure something is firmly fixed or safe from threat or danger. It has a more permanent connotation compared to 'hitches'.

  • Secure the bike with a lock
  • We need to secure the perimeter to ensure safety

Examples of usage

  • He hitched the trailer to his truck before heading out on the road.
  • She hitched her bike to the back of the car for transportation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'hitch' comes from the Old English 'hiċċan', which means to seize or catch hold.
  • Originally, 'hitch' referred to a quick or sudden movement, which evolved into the meaning of unexpected problems.
  • In the context of horses, it meant to tie them up quickly, highlighting sudden stops or snags.

Pop Culture

  • Hitches are often used in movies and TV shows to create comic relief, showing characters struggling with minor setbacks.
  • The term is commonly used in storytelling to describe plot twists that create challenges for the main character.
  • In the video game world, 'hitches' refer to sudden frame drops that interrupt smooth gameplay, much to players' frustration.

Science

  • In project management, 'hitches' refer to unforeseen delays that impact timelines and deliverables.
  • The psychological concept of 'hitching' suggests people's emotional responses when facing unexpected challenges, often leading to stress.
  • In mechanics, the term can describe points where movement is compromised, affecting overall system performance.

Technology

  • In software development, 'hitches' can refer to lag or delays in user interfaces that disrupt user experience.
  • 'Hitching' is also a common term in machine learning, indicating interruptions in data processing that can affect model training.
  • Manufacturing processes can experience 'hitches' that slow down production lines, illustrating how smooth operation is crucial.

Literature

  • In narratives, hitches are often plot devices used by authors to develop characters and advance the story.
  • Poets might use 'hitches' in their works to create a sense of tension or conflict, captivating readers.
  • Classic literature often highlights hitches in heroes' journeys, depicting their struggles before reaching success.

Translations

Translations of the word "hitches" in other languages:

🇵🇹 obstáculos

🇮🇳 अड़चनें

🇩🇪 Hindernisse

🇮🇩 hambatan

🇺🇦 перешкоди

🇵🇱 przeszkody

🇯🇵 障害

🇫🇷 obstacles

🇪🇸 obstáculos

🇹🇷 engeller

🇰🇷 장애물

🇸🇦 عقبات

🇨🇿 překážky

🇸🇰 prekážky

🇨🇳 障碍

🇸🇮 ovire

🇮🇸 hindranir

🇰🇿 кедергілер

🇬🇪 ბარიერები

🇦🇿 maneələr

🇲🇽 obstáculos

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,618 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.