hurdles
Definition
Noun 1. A track and field event: A race in which runners must clear a series of barriers called hurdles. 2. The obstacles themselves: The series of portable frames or barriers that runners jump over in such a race.
Usage
The word "hurdles" is used as a plural noun. It typically refers to the sporting event as a whole. When referring to a single barrier, the singular form "hurdle" is used.
Examples
- She won the gold medal in the 100-meter hurdles.
- The athlete trained daily to improve her technique over the hurdles.
- He fell after hitting the final hurdle but still finished the race.
Advanced Usage
- Metaphorical Use: While "hurdles" itself is not typically used metaphorically, its singular form "hurdle" is very common. For example: "Overcoming financial hurdles was difficult." (Here, "hurdles" metaphorically means obstacles or challenges).
- "The hurdles": This phrase can specifically denote the hurdles event in athletics.
- He specializes in the 400m and the hurdles.
Variants and Related Words
- Hurdle (singular noun): A single barrier to be jumped in a race.
- Hurdle (verb): To run in a hurdles race, or to jump over an obstacle.
- She will hurdle in the national championships next week.
- Hurdler (noun): An athlete who competes in hurdles races.
- Hurdling (noun): The sport or action of running in a hurdles race.
Synonyms
- Obstacle race (for the event)
- Barriers (for the physical objects)
Related Idioms and Phrases
- To clear a hurdle: Literally, to jump over a hurdle successfully. Figuratively, to overcome a difficulty.
- The company cleared a major legal hurdle.
- The first hurdle: The initial challenge in a process.
- Passing the interview was just the first hurdle.
Noun
-
a footrace in which contestants must negotiate a series of hurdles
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