stalemate
What does "stalemate" mean?
Stalemate describes a situation where two opposing sides are stuck in a deadlock, unable to make any further progress or reach a resolution. The mental image is that of a game of chess where the player whose turn it is has no legal moves to make, but is not in check, resulting in a game that cannot be won or lost by either side. In common usage, the term has moved beyond the chessboard to describe political, military, or personal conflicts where neither party is willing to concede and neither can force a victory. It implies a frustrating state of immobility that requires an external intervention or a radical change in strategy to break.
"stalemate" in conversation
Work project negotiation
We've been debating these budget cuts for three hours.
We've been debating these budget cuts for three hours.
I agree, we've reached a total stalemate.
I agree, we've reached a total stalemate.
Let's take a break and come back with fresh eyes.
Let's take a break and come back with fresh eyes.
Used to describe a lack of progress in a meeting.
Discussing a movie ending
The movie ended on such a weird note.
The movie ended on such a weird note.
Yeah, the hero and villain were in a stalemate, so they just walked away.
Yeah, the hero and villain were in a stalemate, so they just walked away.
Used to describe a narrative conflict that lacks a clear resolution.
"stalemate" in a sentence
The two sides reached a stalemate after hours of debate.
The two sides reached a stalemate after hours of debate.
The peace talks ended in a stalemate, with neither side willing to compromise on the border territory.
The peace talks ended in a stalemate, with neither side willing to compromise on the border territory.
The ongoing stalemate between the rival factions has brought the legislative process to a grinding halt.
The ongoing stalemate between the rival factions has brought the legislative process to a grinding halt.
