German word

Hindernis

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈhɪndɐnɪs/

Meaning

  • neuter nounobstacle

Example

Viele Hindernisse stehen uns im Weg.

Many obstacles stand in our way.

Illustration for Hindernis (obstacle)

More examples

Dank der Unterstützung konnten wir das Hindernis überwinden.

Thanks to the assistance, we were able to overcome the obstacle.

Core concept

A blockage in a path or plan that makes progress slower or impossible.

Common phrases

  • ein Hindernis überwinden

    overcome an obstacle

  • ein Hindernis aus dem Weg räumen

    remove an obstacle

  • mit Hindernissen rechnen

    reckon with obstacles

Similar words

Schwierigkeit: A condition or factor that makes an action or task harder to complete.
Problem: An undesirable situation or issue requiring resolution or action.
Hürde: A temporary obstacle that must be overcome or avoided to move forward.
Barriere: A distinct physical or institutional barrier that blocks the way.

Definition in German

Ein Hindernis ist etwas, das den Fortschritt oder ein Vorhaben verhindert oder erschwert.

Word origin

Hindernis is formed from the verb hindern, 'to hinder', with the noun-forming suffix -nis.

Usage tips

  • Hindernis is neuter, with the plural Hindernisse: das Hindernis, die Hindernisse.

Other meanings

  • hindrancenoun
  • barriernoun

Opposites

Related words

  • hindernimpedeverb
  • hinderlichobstructiveadjective

Word lists with this word