impasse

[ˈɪmpæs]

impasse Definition

• 1. a situation in which progress is impossible, especially because the people involved cannot agree
• 2. a road or way that has no exit

Using impasse: Examples

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

• Example

  The negotiations reached an impasse when neither side would compromise.

• Example

  The car was stuck in an impasse with no way out.

• Example

  The project came to an impasse due to lack of funding.

impasse Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for impasse

• deadlock
• stalemate
• standoff
• gridlock
• halt

Antonyms for impasse

• breakthrough
• solution
• agreement

Idioms Using impasse

• at an impasse

  unable to make progress or reach an agreement

  Example

  The negotiations were at an impasse, with both sides refusing to budge.

• dead-end impasse

  a situation in which there is no way forward or solution to a problem

  Example

  The company found itself in a dead-end impasse with no clear path to profitability.

• impasse of sorts

  a situation in which there is no clear resolution or outcome

  Example

  The conflict between the two countries had reached an impasse of sorts, with neither side willing to back down.

Phrases with impasse

• reach an impasse

  to come to a point where no agreement can be reached

  Example

  The talks between the two countries have reached an impasse.

• political impasse

  a situation in which the government is unable to make decisions or take action because opposing parties are equally strong

  Example

  The country is currently in a political impasse due to the divided opinions of the ruling party and the opposition.

• economic impasse

  a situation in which economic growth is stagnant or declining, often caused by factors such as high inflation, unemployment, or debt

  Example

  The country's economy is in an impasse due to the ongoing recession and high unemployment rates.

Origins of impasse

from French 'en', meaning 'in' + 'passe', meaning 'pass'

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Summary: impasse in Brief

The term 'impasse' [ˈɪmpæs] refers to a situation where progress is impossible, often due to disagreement among the parties involved. It can also refer to a road or way that has no exit. Examples include 'The negotiations reached an impasse when neither side would compromise.' and 'The car was stuck in an impasse with no way out.' Phrases like 'reach an impasse' and idioms like 'at an impasse' denote situations where no agreement can be reached.