a traffic jam in which no vehicular movement is possible, especially one caused by the blockage of key intersections within a grid of streets, a situation in which no progress can be made, especially because of disagreement, a complete lack of movement or progress

Formal and Informal Expressions of gridlock

In different contexts, you can replace 'gridlock' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'congestion, obstruction' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'standstill, traffic jam' is a commonplace synonym.

gridlock: Explore its Definition & Usage

gridlock Definition

1a traffic jam in which no vehicular movement is possible, especially one caused by the blockage of key intersections within a grid of streets
2a situation in which no progress can be made, especially because of disagreement
3a complete lack of movement or progress

Using gridlock: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gridlock" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The city was in gridlock for hours due to the accident on the highway.
Example
The negotiations between the two countries have reached a gridlock.
Example
The political process has been in gridlock for months with no resolution in sight.

gridlock Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for gridlock

congestion
blockage
obstruction
traffic jam
standstill

Antonyms for gridlock

Phrases with gridlock

gridlock alert
a warning issued by transportation authorities to advise drivers of heavy traffic congestion and delays
Example
The city issued a gridlock alert for the downtown area during rush hour.
political gridlock
a situation in which opposing political parties or factions are unable to reach a compromise or agreement on a particular issue
Example
The government shutdown was caused by political gridlock between the two major parties.
gridlock economy
an economic situation in which growth is stagnant due to a lack of investment, innovation, or productivity
Example
The country's gridlock economy has led to high unemployment rates and low consumer confidence.

Origins of gridlock

from 'grid' + 'lock', referring to the locking of vehicles in a grid pattern

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Summary: gridlock in Brief

The term 'gridlock' [grid-luhk] refers to a situation where no progress can be made, such as a traffic jam or political impasse. It is often used to describe a complete lack of movement or progress, as in 'The negotiations have reached a gridlock.' 'Gridlock' can also be used in phrases like 'gridlock alert,' which warns of heavy traffic congestion, and 'gridlock economy,' which describes an economic situation with stagnant growth.