stumbles
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈstəmbəɫz// UK //stˈʌmbəlz// stum·bles
n. small mistakes or moments when someone almost falls. You use this to describe minor problems that happen while you are trying to achieve something.
n. instances of tripping or losing one's balance; metaphorically, minor errors or setbacks encountered during a process.
The company had a few stumbles during its first year.
Despite some early stumbles with the new software, the team managed to complete the project on time.
The candidate's campaign was marked by occasional stumbles in policy articulation, yet his overall message resonated deeply with the core electorate.
Usage
Often used in the plural to describe a series of minor difficulties rather than a single failure.