A big stumbling block preventing settlement was the union's demand for a cost-of-living escalator clause (Wall Street Journal).
Useful english dictionary. 2012.
stumbling block — stum|bling block [ stʌmblıŋ ,blak ] noun count a difficulty that causes mistakes or prevents progress: a major stumbling block to an agreement … Usage of the words and phrases in modern English
stumbling block — stum′bling block n. an obstacle or hindrance to progress, belief, or understanding • Etymology: 1580–90 … From formal English to slang
Stumbling-block — Stum bling block , n. Any cause of stumbling, perplexity, or error. [1913 Webster] We preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness. 1 Cor. i. 23. [1913 Webster] … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
stumblingblock — stum·bling block (stŭmʹblĭng) n. An obstacle or impediment. * * * … Universalium
Stumbling-stone — Stum bling stone , n. A stumbling block. [1913 Webster] This stumbling stone we hope to take away. T. Burnet. [1913 Webster] … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
