deadlock

[ˈdedlɒk]

deadlock Definition

• 1. a situation, typically one involving opposing parties, in which no progress can be made because of a disagreement or stalemate
• 2. a standstill resulting from the opposition of two unrelenting forces

Using deadlock: Examples

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

• Example

  The negotiations reached a deadlock.

• Example

  The two sides are at a deadlock over the issue of border control.

• Example

  The company is in a deadlock with the union over pay and benefits.

• Example

  The political process has been deadlocked for months.

deadlock Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for deadlock

• impasse
• stalemate
• standoff
• gridlock
• halt

Antonyms for deadlock

• breakthrough
• agreement

Idioms Using deadlock

• break the deadlock

  to find a way to end a situation in which no progress can be made

  Example

  The mediator was able to break the deadlock and get the two sides to agree on a compromise.

• deadlock in negotiations

  a situation in which no progress can be made in negotiations

  Example

  The deadlock in negotiations between the two countries has lasted for months.

• deadlock over an issue

  a situation in which no progress can be made because of a disagreement over an issue

  Example

  The talks between the two sides have reached a deadlock over the issue of trade.

Phrases with deadlock

• deadlock position

  a position in which neither side can make progress or gain an advantage

  Example

  Both teams were in a deadlock position, unable to score any points.

• deadlock situation

  a situation in which no progress can be made because of a disagreement or stalemate

  Example

  The negotiations had reached a deadlock situation, with both sides refusing to compromise.

• deadlock vote

  a vote in which neither side wins a majority

  Example

  The election resulted in a deadlock vote, with no clear winner.

Origins of deadlock

from 'dead' + 'lock', meaning a lock that cannot be opened

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Summary: deadlock in Brief

The term 'deadlock' [ˈdedlɒk] refers to a situation where no progress can be made due to a disagreement or stalemate. It is often used in the context of negotiations, politics, and sports. Examples include 'The negotiations reached a deadlock,' and 'The political process has been deadlocked for months.' Phrases like 'deadlock position' and 'deadlock vote' denote positions where neither side can make progress or gain an advantage. Idioms like 'break the deadlock' refer to finding a way to end a situation where no progress can be made.