# impediment

/ˌɪmˈpɛdəmənt/ (US) · /ɪmpˈɛdɪmənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/impediment
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

something that makes it difficult for a person to do something or for a process to move forward. It is like a barrier or a block that slows you down.

For teachers: a hindrance or obstruction in doing something; a physical or abstract barrier to progress. Often used in the context of speech to describe a physical condition that makes speaking clearly difficult.

## Examples

- The heavy rain was a major impediment to our travel plans.
- The lack of funding proved to be a serious impediment to the research team's ability to finish the study on time.
- While the legal framework was intended to promote growth, the sheer volume of bureaucratic red tape acted as a significant impediment to foreign investment in the region.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.