bottleneck
A point of congestion that slows down progress
Examples
In a meeting
“The approval process is the main bottleneck in our workflow.”
Over coffee
“Traffic at that intersection is always a bottleneck during rush hour.”
Why this word
obstacle
bottleneck specifically identifies a constraint that limits flow/throughput in a process, while obstacle is any general impediment
delay
bottleneck pinpoints the specific constraining point in a system, while delay only describes the symptom or result
problem
bottleneck precisely identifies a capacity-limiting constraint in workflow, while problem is vague about type and location
Usage tip
Use to identify specific obstacles causing delays in processes or systems
Etymology
English: from the narrow neck of a bottle that restricts flow
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Related words
circumvent
To find a way around an obstacle or restriction.
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
generate
To cause something to arise or come about; to produce.
reconcile
Make two conflicting things compatible or resolve a disagreement
recourse
A source of help or option available in a difficult situation
accelerate
To speed up a process or increase the pace