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pitfall

pitfall

35 4.8
An unexpected problem that is not obvious at first
  • noun
  • /ˈpɪtˌfɔl/
translation icon : trampa
  • Just watch for the obvious pitfalls and have fun with the challenges.
  • avoid pitfalls
  • potential pitfalls
  • common pitfalls

So that's, that's a common sort of pitfall that that I find.

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Examples

  • To assume that these trends are inevitable is perhaps the greatest pitfall facing rural communities.

    Academic text (1999)
  • It will show you how to avoid the pitfalls associated with this lifestyle.

  • Yes, but there is a pitfall in the system.

  • Now, Ryan, what do you think is like the biggest pitfall of trying to do it yourself?

  • Now, what's an obvious pitfall of this approach?

  • To avoid these pitfalls, leaders must understand the obstacles to change in their own organizations.

    Academic text (2017)
  • Such researchers can benefit from the information in this review and can avoid many pitfalls previously documented.

    Academic text (1999)
  • But such policies were rife with pitfalls, both economic and political.

    Academic text (2013)
  • The history of diabetes brings to light many of the pitfalls of race-based medicine.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Many entrepreneurs overlook the potential pitfalls of starting a business without a solid plan.

Synonyms

problem
vspitfall
1.2

A situation that causes trouble and needs a solution

is a specific type of difficulty that is unexpected and not obvious
setback
vspitfall
148 3.6

A problem that delays progress or makes things worse

is often a subtle or hidden obstacle, not just a delay
snag
vspitfall
25 4.6

An unexpected problem that delays a plan

is a subtle difficulty that is not immediately obvious
rub
vspitfall
  • Informal
22 7.7

An unexpected problem that makes a plan or situation more difficult

is typically a less visible problem you might overlook
curveball
vspitfall
  • Informal
11 6.0

An unexpected problem that makes a situation more difficult

is a less obvious difficulty rather than a sudden surprise
head-scratcher
vspitfall
  • Informal
4 7.7

A problem that is hard to understand or solve

is usually a hidden difficulty rather than a merely puzzling one
gotcha
vspitfall
  • Informal
2 8.8

A hidden problem that can cause trouble

is a less obvious difficulty that is easy to miss
monkey wrench
vspitfall
  • Informal
1 7.0

An unexpected problem that causes trouble with a plan

is a less obvious difficulty that may be missed
spanner in the plan
vspitfall
  • UK
7.0

A sudden problem that stops plans from happening

is generally a less noticeable difficulty that is easy to miss
4.2

A sudden problem that stops progress and causes delay

is more hidden and not immediately apparent

Antonyms

2.8

Something that helps a person do better than others

How Serious

catastrophe
176 7.0
crisis
3.1
pitfall
35 4.8
problem
1.2
difficulty
651 2.4
snag
25 4.6

Surface Forms

pitfall singular
pitfalls plural

Morphology

pitfall = pit + fall (semi-transparent) = pit + fall

The sense is a metaphorical extension from a literal trap (pit + fall) to an abstract 'trap or hidden difficulty', so the relation is clear but non-literal.

Etymology

The word pitfall combines pit ('hole') and fall ('to fall'), and a helpful way to remember the figurative meaning is to imagine stepping into a hidden hole you did not see. So a pitfall today is an unexpected problem or trap you can 'fall into' in a plan or project.