deadlock
Translation
deadlock, stalemate, impasse
Examples
The negotiations have reached a deadlock.
The negotiations have reached a deadlock.
We need to find a way to break the deadlock.
We need to find a way to break the deadlock.
Grammar Patterns
to reach a deadlock to arrive at a point where no progress can be made The talks reached a deadlock over money.
to break the deadlock to end a situation where no progress can be made A compromise is needed to break the deadlock.
Similar Words
impasse, stalemate, standstill
Etymology
From 'dead' (complete, absolute) + 'lock' (a state of being fixed). A situation where no progress can be made.
Memory Tips
Imagine two people trying to go through a doorway at the same time and getting stuck. They are in a 'deadlock'.