standoff

[ˈstændɒf]

standoff Definition

  • 1a situation in which agreement in an argument does not seem possible
  • 2a deadlock or impasse

Using standoff: Examples

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

  • Example

    The negotiations ended in a standoff between the two parties.

  • Example

    The police and the suspect were in a standoff for several hours.

  • Example

    The team's defense prevented a touchdown, resulting in a standoff on the field.

standoff Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with standoff

  • a confrontation between two or more parties in which no participant can proceed or retreat without being exposed to danger

    Example

    The two gunmen were in a Mexican standoff, each waiting for the other to make a move.

  • unfriendly or aloof in manner

    Example

    She was very standoffish when I tried to talk to her.

  • a missile or other long-range weapon that can be launched from a safe distance

    Example

    The military used standoff weapons to attack enemy targets without risking their own troops.

Origins of standoff

from the phrasal verb 'stand off', meaning 'to keep at a distance'

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Summary: standoff in Brief

A 'standoff' [ˈstændɒf] is a situation where there is no agreement or progress in an argument or negotiation. It can also refer to a deadlock or impasse. Examples include a confrontation between police and a suspect, or a stalemate in a sports game. Phrases like 'Mexican standoff' and 'standoff weapon' extend the term's usage.

How do native speakers use this expression?