Gridlocked: meaning, definitions and examples

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gridlocked

[ˈɡrɪdˌlɒkt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

traffic

Unable to move or progress due to a blockage or obstruction, typically in reference to vehicles on a road.

Synonyms

blocked, congested, jammed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gridlocked	Use this word when referring to a situation where traffic is completely stopped and there's no movement at all. It’s often used for severe traffic situations in cities. The city was completely gridlocked during rush hour. After the accident, the highway became gridlocked, making it impossible to get through.
congested	Typically used for situations where there is a lot of traffic or people, causing slow movement and overcrowding, rather than a complete stop. The downtown area is always congested during rush hour. Her nose was congested from a bad cold.
jammed	Often used to describe a situation where there is a lot of something packed into a space, causing difficulty in movement. It can refer to traffic as well as other contexts. The printer got jammed with paper, and I had to fix it. During the festival, the subway was jammed with people.
blocked	This word can be used for anything that is being prevented from passing or continuing, not only traffic. It implies an obstruction of some sort. The road is blocked due to construction work. Her view was blocked by the tall person standing in front of her at the concert.

Examples of usage

The streets were gridlocked with cars during rush hour.
We were gridlocked on the highway for hours due to the accident.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

traffic

To block or obstruct a road or pathway, causing congestion and preventing movement.

Synonyms

block, jam, obstruct.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gridlocked	Use 'gridlocked' to describe a situation where traffic is completely stuck and vehicles cannot move at all. This word is typically used regarding cities and downtown areas during peak hours. The city center was gridlocked because of the rush hour traffic. We were gridlocked for hours due to the parade.
block	Use 'block' when referring to something that prevents progress or movement, often used in a general sense for various types of obstructions. This can be physical objects, people, or even abstract concepts. There was a fallen tree that blocked the road. Her indecisiveness is blocking the project’s progress.
obstruct	Use 'obstruct' when something is actively or passively blocking the way or making movement difficult. It can be employed in both physical and metaphorical contexts. A parked car obstructed the entrance to the alley. New regulations are obstructing the progress of the business.
jam	Use 'jam' to describe a situation where there is a crowding or tight squeezing of vehicles or people, leading to a slowdown. It is often used for minor and temporary traffic issues or mechanical problems. There was a traffic jam on the highway this morning. The copier jammed again with too much paper.

Examples of usage

The accident gridlocked the main road leading to the city.
He gridlocked the intersection by parking his car in the middle of the street.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'gridlocked' emerged in the late 20th century, combining 'grid,' which refers to city street patterns, and 'lock,' implying things are stuck.
Its use became popular alongside the rise of the automobile, reflecting the traffic issues in urban areas.
The word captures the image of how streets in a grid layout can become completely blocked.

Urban Planning

Gridlock often indicates systemic problems in urban design, where road capacity cannot handle the number of vehicles.
Cities employing rigid grid patterns may experience more frequent gridlock due to limited alternative routes.
Solution strategies include enhancing public transportation, implementing carpool lanes, and managing traffic signals efficiently.

Economics

Gridlock can negatively impact local businesses by deterring customers who can't navigate congested areas.
Research shows that gridlock can lead to increased fuel consumption, costing drivers and the economy billions annually.
Time lost in gridlock translates to financial loss for individuals and companies, contributing to overall economic inefficiency.

Psychology

Experiencing gridlock can elevate stress levels, as being stuck in traffic often leads to feelings of frustration and impatience.
Psychological studies indicate that long periods in gridlock can decrease job performance due to elevated stress and time lost.
Gridlock scenarios can affect social interactions, leading to more aggressive behavior among frustrated commuters.

Pop Culture

The term 'gridlocked' has been featured in various films and TV shows, often as a humorous depiction of urban life.
Songs referencing traffic jams or gridlocks highlight the shared frustrations of city dwellers, connecting listeners through relatable experiences.
Modern video games sometimes simulate traffic systems where gridlock can occur, adding an element of strategy and challenge.

Translations

Translations of the word "gridlocked" in other languages:

🇵🇹 congestionado

🇮🇳 जाम में फंसा हुआ

🇩🇪 verstopft

🇮🇩 terjebak kemacetan

🇺🇦 застряглий у заторі

🇵🇱 zakorkowany

🇯🇵 渋滞に巻き込まれた

🇫🇷 bloqué dans les embouteillages

🇪🇸 atrapado en el tráfico

🇹🇷 trafikte sıkışmış

🇰🇷 교통 체증에 갇힌

🇸🇦 عالق في الازدحام المروري

🇨🇿 uvíznutý v zácpě

🇸🇰 uviaznutý v zápche

🇨🇳 陷入交通堵塞

🇸🇮 zagozden v prometnem zamašku

🇮🇸 fastur í umferðarþrengslum

🇰🇿 көлік кептелісінде қалып қойды

🇬🇪 გზაზე გაჭედილი

🇦🇿 tıxacda qalmış

🇲🇽 atrapado en el tráfico

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,565, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.

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40564 tenderizing
40565 gridlocked
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40568 jilting
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