Something that blocks or impedes progress; an obstacle, hindrance, or difficulty.
予算不足がプロジェクトの大きな障害になった。
A lack of budget became a major obstacle to the project.
言語の違いが留学の障害になることがある。
Language differences can sometimes be an impediment to studying abroad.
新しい制度の導入には多くの障害が予想される。
Many obstacles are expected in introducing the new system.
技術的な問題が進行の障害となった。
Technical problems became an impediment to progress.
A disorder, defect, disability, or impairment affecting physical or mental function; often written as "障がい" in welfare contexts to soften the term.
彼は先天的な聴覚障害を持っている。
He has a congenital hearing impairment.
発達障害の子どもたちを支援する活動に参加した。
I took part in activities supporting children with developmental disorders.
障害者雇用のための企業の取り組みが進んでいる。
Companies' efforts to employ people with disabilities are progressing.
公的書類では「障がい」を使うケースも増えている。
Cases using the spelling "障がい" in official documents are increasing.
In horse racing, an abbreviation for steeplechase: a race in which horses jump over fences, ditches, etc.
今日は開催日で、午後には障害が組まれている。
Today is race day, and a steeplechase is scheduled in the afternoon.
その馬は障害で安定した強さを見せている。
That horse has shown consistent strength in steeplechase races.
An abbreviation for an obstacle race (athletics): a race where participants run while overcoming several obstacles.
体育の時間に障害をやって、皆でリレー形式で競った。
In PE class we did an obstacle race and competed in relay teams.
運動会では障害物競走（略して障害）が人気の種目だ。
At sports day, the obstacle race (abbreviated as '障害') is a popular event.