noun
C2
Proficient
hindrance
HIHND-ruhns
Hindrance (noun) means something that gets in the way or slows progress; an obstacle. Example: “The broken lift was a real hindrance to the elderly residents.”
noun
1
Something that gets in the way or slows progress; an obstacle.
"The broken lift was a real hindrance to the elderly residents."
"Rather than helping, his advice turned out to be more of a hindrance."
How to use hindrance
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA problem or obstacle that makes something harder to do.
Common pairings
a hindrance to
more of a hindrance than a help
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Word forms
- Plural
- hindrances
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The broken lift was a real _____ to the elderly residents.
Etymology
From Middle English hinderaunce, from hinder + -ance.
Synonyms
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bar
drag
barrier
bone in the throat
bump in the road
impediment
obstruction
obstacle
encumbrance
hurdle
roadblock
stumbling block
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for hindrance
See all rhymes for hindrance →Frequently asked questions
What does “hindrance” mean?
The word “hindrance” means something that gets in the way or slows progress; an obstacle. In plain terms, a problem or obstacle that makes something harder to do.
How do you pronounce “hindrance”?
“Hindrance” is pronounced HIHND-ruhns (/ˈhɪndɹəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “hindrance” in a sentence?
Here is “hindrance” used in a sentence: “The broken lift was a real hindrance to the elderly residents.”
What is another word for “hindrance”?
Words with a similar meaning to “hindrance” include bar, drag, barrier, bone in the throat, bump in the road and impediment.
What part of speech is “hindrance”?
“Hindrance” is a noun.
Where does the word “hindrance” come from?
The word “hindrance” comes from Middle English. From Middle English hinderaunce, from hinder + -ance.
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