sticking point
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sticking point
The decisive, most difficult, or most problematic point in a matter or problem.
Der Knackpunkt bei den Verhandlungen ist die Frage der Finanzierung.
The sticking point in the negotiations is the question of financing.
'Der Knackpunkt' is a compound word made up of 'knacken' (to crack) and 'der Punkt' (the point). Figuratively, it describes the point of a problem that is the hardest to 'knacken' (to crack) or solve, like a hard nut.
Das ist der Knackpunkt an unserem ganzen Plan.
That is the sticking point in our whole plan.
'Knackpunkt' (sticking point) is often used with the verbs 'sein' (to be) or 'liegen' (to lie/be located). For example, you say: 'Der Knackpunkt ist...' (The sticking point is...) or 'Der Knackpunkt liegt in...' (The sticking point lies in...).
Der eigentliche Knackpunkt liegt in der fehlenden Zeit.
The real sticking point lies in the lack of time.
To name the topic where the problem lies, the preposition 'bei' is often used, followed by the dative.
Der Knackpunkt bei diesem Projekt ist das knappe Budget.
The sticking point in this project is the tight budget.
difficulty
'die Schwierigkeit' and 'der Knackpunkt' both have to do with something difficult or problematic. 'Schwierigkeit' is general: it can be a problem, an obstacle, or the difficulty level of a task. 'Knackpunkt' more specifically means the decisive point that shows whether something will succeed or not. There are often several difficulties, but usually one main sticking point. If you are speaking generally about problems, 'Schwierigkeit' fits. If you want to name the central, most difficult point, 'Knackpunkt' is more precise.
Im Gespräch vor dem Termin ist das Geld der Knackpunkt.
In the discussion before the appointment, money is the sticking point.
Beim Renovieren hatten die Eltern vor allem Schwierigkeiten mit den alten Leitungen.
During the renovation, the parents mainly had difficulties with the old pipes.