Here are some different ways to think about the definition:
* Something that blocks or delays: An impediment can be a physical object like a fallen tree blocking a road, or a more abstract concept like a lack of funding hindering a project.
* A difficulty or obstacle: An impediment can be something that makes it hard to do something, like a language barrier preventing communication or a lack of skills making it difficult to learn a new task.
* A flaw or weakness: An impediment can also refer to a personal flaw or weakness that hinders someone's progress, such as a fear of public speaking or a lack of self-confidence.
Here are some examples of impediments:
* Physical impediments: A broken leg, a locked door, a traffic jam
* Mental impediments: Fear, anxiety, lack of motivation
* Social impediments: Discrimination, prejudice, lack of access to resources
* Legal impediments: A law that restricts certain activities, a contract that prevents someone from doing something
In essence, an impediment is anything that makes it harder or impossible to achieve a desired outcome.