pitfall — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A type of trap consisting of a concealed pit in the ground, into which the victim is supposed to fall and not be able to get out from.

   Synonyms

   trapping pit

2. A potential, unsuspected, hidden problem, hazard, or danger that is easily encountered but not immediately obvious.

   Usage

   • Figurative

   Synonyms

   trap

   Examples

   It's usually a simple task, but you should know the pitfalls before you attempt it yourself.

3. An antipattern.

   Synonyms

   antipatterndark pattern

4. Subsidence below ground in a mine, which can cause the ground level above to drop.

   Examples

   More examples (1)

   This pitfall, beginning in February and finishing in May, resulted in a drop of about 3 ft. in the platform level; during this period it was necessary to level the track three times weekly, and impose a service slack of 15 m.p.h. The subsidence appears now to have finished, and normal speed is once again permitted.

Verb

1. To trap, snare, or ensnare someone or something.

   Usage

   • Figurative
   • Transitive
   • Uncommon

Noun

1. an unforeseen or unexpected or surprising difficulty

   Synonyms

   booby trap

   Broader terms

   difficultydifficultness

2. a trap in the form of a concealed hole

   Synonyms

   pit

   Broader terms

   trap