bottleneck
Translation
bottleneck, congestion, hold-up
Examples
Traffic is slow because of a bottleneck on the bridge.
Traffic is slow because of a bottleneck on the bridge.
Lack of funding is the main bottleneck for the project.
Lack of funding is the main bottleneck for the project.
Grammar Patterns
a bottleneck in ((sth.)) a point of congestion in ((sth.)) a bottleneck in production
Similar Words
Synonyms: obstruction, obstacle, congestion, impasse
Etymology
A compound of 'bottle' and 'neck', literally referring to the narrow part of a bottle.
Memory Tips
Imagine liquid trying to pour out of a bottle quickly. The narrow neck slows it down. This image applies to traffic, projects, etc.