sand in the gears
- frictionResistance between touching surfaces
- obstructionSomething blocking the way
- sabotageDeliberate disruption of operations
- wrenchTool for turning fasteners
- monkey wrenchTool with sliding jaw
grinding · grit · clog · jam · hitch · snag · slowdown · bureaucracy · red tape · impediment · blockage · interference · drag · machinery · resistance · disruption · stalling · breakdown
operational effect
sand in the gearsgrease the wheels
Ease a difficult process
lubricant · smooth sailing · well-oiled machine · catalyst · facilitator
intentional action
sand in the gearshelping hand
Support given to another
pave the way · open doors · facilitate · shot in the arm · enable