Real Dictionary

noose
You can refer to something that traps people in a difficult situation as a noose around their neck.
countable noun: A noose is a circular loop at the end of a piece of rope or wire. A noose is tied with a knot that allows it to be tightened, and it is usually used to trap animals or hang people.

noose in American English
a loop formed in a rope, cord, etc. by means of a slipknot so that the loop tightens as the rope is pulled
to catch or hold in a noose; trap, ensnare, etc.
noun: a loop with a running knot, as in a snare, lasso, or hangman's halter, that tightens as the rope is pulled
transitive verb: to secure by or as by a noose

noose in British English
noun: a loop in the end of a rope or cord, such as a lasso, snare, or hangman's halter, usually tied with a slipknot