Impediments Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impediments

[ษชmหˆpษ›dษชmษ™nts ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

overcoming obstacles

Impediments are obstacles or hindrances that prevent progress or movement.

Synonyms

barriers, hindrances, obstacles.

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Word Description / Examples
impediments

This word is commonly used to describe something that slows down progress or makes it difficult to move forward. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts.

  • Her speech impediment made public speaking a challenge.
  • Lack of funding can be a major impediment to scientific research.
obstacles

Obstacles are things that stand in the way of progress or achievement and are often seen as significant challenges. They can be physical or metaphorical.

  • The mountain was a formidable obstacle on their journey.
  • Despite many obstacles, she achieved her dream of becoming a doctor.
barriers

Barriers are typically physical or metaphorical structures that prevent movement or progress. This term is often used in discussions about equality, accessibility, and mental health.

  • Language barriers can make communication difficult.
  • Barriers to entry are high in the tech industry.
hindrances

This word is used to describe things that make a task more difficult or slow progress. Hindrances are usually less severe than obstacles or barriers and can be removed or overcome.

  • The lack of experience was a hindrance to his job search.
  • Minor hindrances should not stop you from achieving your goals.

Examples of usage

  • Impediments to the project included lack of funding and inadequate resources.
  • The team faced several impediments while trying to reach their goal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive impediments can hinder decision-making, leading to analysis paralysis where individuals overthink and struggle to make choices.
  • Emotional impediments, such as fear or anxiety, can also prevent people from pursuing their goals or dreams.
  • Therapeutic interventions often focus on identifying and overcoming personal impediments to improve mental well-being.

Law

  • In legal contexts, impediments can refer to obstacles that prevent the performance of a contract or agreement.
  • Certain impediments can invalidate a marriage, such as age or kinship, highlighting their important role in legal frameworks.
  • Impediments to justice may include socioeconomic factors, illustrating how they can affect access to legal resources.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters face impediments that symbolize their inner turmoil or societal challenges.
  • Dramatic narratives often revolve around a protagonist's journey to overcome impediments, representing personal growth.
  • Shakespeare frequently used physical and emotional impediments in his plays to enhance dramatic tension.

Education

  • Educational impediments can be learning disabilities that challenge traditional methods of teaching and learning.
  • Access to resources, such as technology or support services, can create impediments to student success in schools.
  • Programs and policies are often designed to identify and remove educational impediments, promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities.

Origin of 'impediments'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'impedimentum', meaning a hindrance or obstacle.
  • In Latin, 'impedire' means 'to trap or hold back', which shows how the term relates to being stuck.
  • It first appeared in Middle English in the 14th century, reflecting its long-standing use in the English language.

The word 'impediments' originated from the Latin word 'impedimentum', which means hindrance or obstacle. It has been used in English since the 17th century to refer to anything that hinders progress or movement.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,834, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.