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Grammar fix

overcome obstacles

get past problems

To successfully deal with difficulties or challenges so they do not stop you from achieving something.

collocationB2common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • She had to overcome many obstacles before starting her own business.daily life
  • In my opinion, people who overcome obstacles in life become stronger and more confident.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: overcome obstacles

WrongShe overcomed many problems.

RightShe overcame many problems.

Irregular: overcome / overcame / overcome — never 'overcomed'.

Patternovercome obstacles

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff She succeeded in surmounting numerous impediments.

Natural She overcame a lot of obstacles.

'Surmount impediments' is literary/very formal; 'overcome obstacles' is the natural pairing.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • overcome obstacles
    overcome obstaclesovercome difficultiesovercome a fearovercome challenges

Don't confuse it

Different from 'avoid obstacles,' which means not facing the problem directly.

Try it in Daily Speak →