Pitfalls

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Challenges and dangers that arise unexpectedly and can thwart success are often referred to as obstacles to progress
2. Unforeseen difficulties that may hinder endeavors can be identified as significant risks and traps
3. Dangers or problems that are not obvious at first and may cause failure or trouble

Etymology: "Pitfalls" is the plural of "pitfall", and the original meaning of the word was far more literal than the figurative sense we use today. In the 14th century, a pitfall was a physical trap: a hole dug in the ground to catch animals or unwary people. Its two halves are simple. "Pit" is the hollow in the earth, and "fall" meant a trap or snare, descending from Old English "fealle," which is related to modern German "Falle," still meaning trap. Over time the concrete hole gave way to the abstract hazard. Once the image of a camouflaged trap in the ground had been established, speakers began using it for any concealed danger that catches a person off guard, which is the sense we know now. The word's meaning therefore moved from something you could fall into to something you could stumble over without seeing it coming.

Synonyms: traps, hazards, dangers, perils, snags

Antonyms: advantages, benefits, opportunities, boons, blessings