being a stumbling block in front of vs being a stumbling block before

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Being a stumbling block in front of' is used when referring to physically obstructing someone or something, while 'being a stumbling block before' is used in a more abstract or metaphorical sense. It's important to choose the preposition that best fits the context of the sentence.

Last updated: March 21, 2024 • 449 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to physically obstructing someone or something.

"being a stumbling block in front of"

This phrase is used when describing a physical obstruction that is directly in the path of someone or something. It implies a literal presence in front of the person or object.

Examples:

He was being a stumbling block in front of the entrance, preventing anyone from entering.
Don't be a stumbling block in front of progress; instead, support positive change.
The fallen tree was a stumbling block in front of the hikers, blocking their path.
She didn't want to be a stumbling block in front of her friends' success.
The huge boulder was a stumbling block in front of the construction project.

Show examples from the web [+]

Feb 14, 2008 ... ... is also a desecration of Sabbath laws and of other laws involving not “being a stumbling block” in front of a “blind” person, that is inteperted to ...

Alternatives:

being an obstacle in front of
being a hindrance in front of
being a barrier in front of
being a roadblock in front of
being a blockade in front of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in a more abstract or metaphorical sense, rather than a physical obstruction.

"being a stumbling block before"

This phrase is used when describing a figurative obstacle or challenge that is ahead of someone or something. It implies a more abstract or conceptual hindrance.

Examples:

Fear of failure was a stumbling block before her as she pursued her dreams.
The lack of funding was a stumbling block before the completion of the project.
His own insecurities were a stumbling block before his personal growth.
The uncertainty of the future was a stumbling block before their decision-making process.
Past experiences can sometimes be a stumbling block before moving forward.

Alternatives:

being an obstacle before
being a hindrance before
being a barrier before
being a roadblock before
being a blockade before

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being a stumbling block in front of vs being a stumbling block before