Meaning and Usage
The verb つまずく primarily means "to stumble" or "to trip" physically, such as catching your foot on something and losing balance. It is often used literally when someone trips over an object like a stone or a step.
Figurative Use
Beyond the literal meaning, つまずく is frequently used figuratively to describe encountering difficulties or setbacks, especially in work, studies, or projects. When someone "つまずく," it implies a temporary failure or obstacle that can be overcome.
Common Collocations
- つまずく + 仕事/勉強/プロジェクト: to stumble or face difficulties in work, study, or projects.
- 石につまずく: to trip over a stone (literal use).
- 最初につまずく: to stumble at the beginning (common phrase indicating early difficulties).
Register and Nuance
つまずく is a neutral verb suitable for both casual and formal contexts. When used figuratively, it often conveys a minor setback rather than a complete failure, implying the possibility of recovery.
Learner Tips
A common confusion is mixing つまずく with 転ぶ (ころぶ), which means "to fall down." Remember, つまずく is about tripping or stumbling, often leading to falling, but not necessarily falling itself. Use つまずく when emphasizing the moment of losing balance due to an obstacle.