Deadlocked: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term combines 'dead,' meaning not functioning, and 'lock,' referring to something that keeps things in place.
• First recorded in the mid-20th century, it reflects situations in politics and negotiations.
• It’s often used in contexts where a resolution is impossible without change from one or both parties.

Politics

• Deadlocks can occur in legislative bodies when opposing parties cannot agree on laws.
• In a political context, it may lead to government shutdowns when no budget can be passed.
• Negotiation deadlocks frequently arise in labor disputes, where unions and employers conflict over terms.

Psychology

• People in deadlock situations may experience heightened stress due to the lack of resolution.
• Cognitive biases can worsen deadlock, as individuals cling to their viewpoints instead of finding compromise.
• Research indicates that emotions play a key role in stubbornness during negotiations, contributing to deadlocks.

Conflict Resolution

• Mediation techniques are often employed to overcome deadlocks, helping parties find common ground.
• Creative brainstorming can break down barriers, encouraging unique solutions to what seem like impossible problems.
• Effective communication strategies can diffuse tensions and lead to breakthroughs in deadlocked situations.

Pop Culture

• Films often portray deadlocked situations in dramatic contexts, heightening tension and suspense.
• The concept is frequent in courtroom dramas, where lawyers argue irreconcilable points, leading to a legal deadlock.
• Television shows may depict romantic deadlocks, where characters struggle between competing interests, keeping audiences engaged.

At rank #29,911, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 29908 irrecoverable
• 29909 waffle
• 29910 sluggishly
• 29911 deadlocked
• 29912 teem
• 29913 eschewing
• 29914 minaret
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