stumbling block
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stumbling block
A figurative expression for an obstacle, difficulty, or problem that hinders progress in a project or undertaking.
Die Bürokratie war der größte Stolperstein bei der Gründung des Unternehmens.
Bureaucracy was the biggest stumbling block in founding the company.
'Stolperstein' is made up of the verb 'stolpern' (to stumble/trip) and the noun 'der Stein' (the stone). Literally, it is a stone that one trips over, which is the basis for the figurative meaning 'Hindernis' (obstacle).
Die unerwarteten Kosten wurden zum Stolperstein für das Bauprojekt.
The unexpected costs became a stumbling block for the construction project.
In this meaning, 'Stolperstein' refers to a specific art and memorial project in Germany and other European countries. The small memorial plaques in the ground commemorate the victims of National Socialism.
Die Schüler putzen jedes Jahr die Stolpersteine in ihrer Stadt.
The students clean the Stolpersteine in their town every year.
In the figurative meaning, 'Stolperstein' (stumbling block) is often used with verbs such as 'darstellen' (to represent/constitute), 'sein' (to be), or 'aus dem Weg räumen' (to clear out of the way). It usually describes abstract problems such as bureaucracy or financing.
Die Sprachprüfung war für ihn der letzte große Stolperstein vor dem Studium.
The language exam was the last major stumbling block for him before university.
When referring to the memorial plaques, the verb 'verlegen' (to lay/install) is often used. Stolpersteine are typically set into the sidewalk in front of the victims' last freely chosen place of residence.
Für ihre Urgroßmutter wurde gestern ein Stolperstein verlegt.
A Stolperstein was laid yesterday for her great-grandmother.
problem
'das Problem' and 'der Stolperstein' can both mean a difficulty that needs to be solved. 'Problem' is the normal and very general word. It works for both small and large difficulties. 'Stolperstein' is usually used figuratively when something slows down a plan or makes the next step difficult. It sounds more concrete and often a bit more vivid than 'Problem'. If you simply want to say that something is not working or needs to be clarified, 'Problem' is more natural. If you want to emphasize an obstacle in a plan or project, 'Stolperstein' works well.
Vor der Reise ist die fehlende Unterschrift noch ein Stolperstein.
Before the trip, the missing signature is still a stumbling block.
Wegen des schlechten Wetters hat er ein Problem mit der Fahrt nach Hause.
Because of the bad weather, he has a problem with the trip home.