
Stymie
Negative Connotation
Stymie usually implies frustration or an undesirable blockage in plans or progress.

Despite their efforts, the team was stymied by the new regulations.
Not Physical
Stymie is used for abstract obstacles, not physical ones like locking a door.

Lack of funds stymied the project's continuation.
Serious Obstacle
Stymie indicates a significant challenge or difficulty, not a minor inconvenience.

The unexpected court ruling stymied the company's expansion plans.
Compare with
BlockFrustrateHinderImpedeInhibitInterfereObstructThwart
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