IPA

Dictionary definition of stymie

To hinder, thwart, or obstruct progress or efforts, often by creating obstacles or difficulties that impede success.
"Unforeseen technical difficulties stymie the software update."

Detailed meaning of stymie

When one 'stymies' a situation or individual, they are effectively blocking or preventing the achievement of a goal or the completion of a task. This term conveys the idea of frustrating or sabotaging one's plans or objectives, making it difficult or impossible for them to move forward. 'Stymie' is often used in contexts where obstacles, challenges, or opposition are deliberately placed in the path of progress, creating complications and hindrances that can be challenging to overcome. It underscores the concept of interference or obstruction, highlighting the impediment to success or advancement.

Example sentences of stymie

1. Despite their best efforts, the unexpected setback seemed to stymie their project.
2. The lack of funding threatened to stymie the development of the new technology.
3. Bureaucratic red tape can stymie even the most promising initiatives.
4. A sudden shortage of supplies can stymie production schedules.
5. The complex regulations often stymie small businesses trying to grow.
6. It's essential to address potential issues early to avoid stymieing progress.

History and etymology of stymie

The verb 'stymie' has its origins in the game of golf. In golf, a 'stymie' referred to a situation where one golfer's ball lay directly in the line of play of another golfer. In this position, the first golfer's ball served as an obstacle or hindrance to the second golfer's shot, creating a challenging and obstructed situation. Over time, the term 'stymie' was adopted into broader English usage to describe hindrances or obstacles that obstructed progress or efforts, often making success more difficult to achieve. While the golfing meaning of 'stymie' has become somewhat archaic, the word is still commonly used to convey the idea of thwarting or obstructing someone's endeavors. The etymology of 'stymie' illustrates its origin in the sport of golf and its evolution into a term denoting obstacles or hindrances that impede progress or success.

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Further usage examples of stymie

1. Unforeseen technical glitches can stymie a software development project.
2. Political disagreements can stymie legislative progress.
3. Inflexible deadlines can stymie creativity and innovation.
4. The pandemic's impact continues to stymie global travel plans.
5. Effective problem-solving skills are crucial to overcome challenges that stymie success.
6. Market fluctuations stymie investment decisions.
7. Prolonged droughts stymie crop growth.
8. Harsh weather conditions stymie the mountain expedition.
9. Reluctance to adapt stymie the company's growth.
10. Inadequate preparation stymie the team's success.
11. The sudden changes stymie our original plan.
12. Limited data access stymie the researchers' study.
13. Intricate legal issues stymie the property sale.
14. Tight security measures stymie the journalist's investigation.
15. Outdated infrastructure stymie the city's modernization efforts.
16. The controversial decision stymie diplomatic negotiations.
17. Insufficient knowledge stymie her ability to complete the task.
18. High tuition fees stymie students' educational pursuits.
19. Intense peer pressure stymie personal growth.
20. Cultural differences stymie the merging of the two companies.
21. Unexpected guests stymie the surprise party.
22. Difficult terrain stymie the exploration mission.
23. The lack of a clear strategy stymie the marketing campaign.
24. Severe storms stymie the relief efforts.