hit a snag
Run into difficulty
To hit a snag is to encounter an unexpected obstacle or complication that slows progress: The project hit a snag when our supplier went bankrupt.
The image is of a submerged tree branch catching a boat or fishing line.
The snag isn't necessarily fatal to the endeavor—just an unforeseen problem requiring attention.
- setbackReverse in progress
- run into a brick wallEncounter an insurmountable obstacle
- frustrationDispleasure from blocked efforts
- disappointmentSadness from unmet expectations
- bottleneckConstriction limiting throughput
hurdle · delay · run aground · complication · throw a wrench · kink · sticking point · roadblock · hindrance · pause · grinding halt · misstep · impediment · obstacle · detour · stumbling block · halt · dead end
- setbacksfailing, back to square one, stuck, losing, stumbles
hit a snagsmooth sailing
Untroubled progress forward
sail through · breeze through · clear sailing · plain sailing · make headway
hit a snagfall into place
Become organized naturally
breeze through · succeed · work out · come together · pan out
hit, snag, hitting, hits, hitman, hitter, snagged, snags, smash hit