Stymie

verb (transitive); also noun

/ˈstaɪ.mi/

To obstruct, hinder, or thwart someone or something, preventing forward progress. As a verb it conveys a blockage that stalls intended action or reform.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

Chronic underfunding and overlapping jurisdictions between the Centre and the States continue to stymie the timely implementation of welfare schemes, leaving the intended beneficiaries trapped in administrative limbo.

Synonyms

thwartobstructhinderimpedefrustrateblock

Antonyms

facilitateassistexpediteadvance

🌱 Word Family

stymie (v), stymied (adj/v past), stymies (v 3rd sg), stymying (v pres.p)

🔡 Root

Coined/Modern: Scots stymie/stimie = one who sees poorly; stime = a glimmer; 19th-c. golf terminology

📜 Etymology

From 19th-c. golf, where a "stymie" was a ball lying between an opponent's ball and the hole, blocking the line of play; of obscure origin, probably from Scots "stymie/stimie" (one who sees poorly), from "stime" (the least bit, a glimmer).

🧠 Memory Hook

Picture a golf ball blocking the hole so you "can't see my" putt — STY-MIE sounds like "sty (pigpen) in my way": an obstacle that stops you in your tracks.

🏛️ Governance 📖 Seen in: Governance, Transparency & Accountabil...

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