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Stalemate: meaning, definitions and examples

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stalemate

 

[ ˈsteɪlmeɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in chess

A situation in which further action or progress by opposing parties seems impossible; a deadlock.

Synonyms

deadlock, impasse, standoff

Examples of usage

  • The game ended in a stalemate as neither player could make a move without putting their king in danger.
  • The negotiations reached a stalemate, with neither side willing to compromise.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A situation in which no progress can be made or no advancement is possible.

Synonyms

blockage, gridlock, halt

Examples of usage

  • The project came to a stalemate due to lack of funding.
  • The team was at a stalemate, unable to decide on the next course of action.

Translations

Translations of the word "stalemate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 empate

🇮🇳 गतिरोध

🇩🇪 Patt

🇮🇩 jalan buntu

🇺🇦 пат

🇵🇱 pat

🇯🇵 引き分け

🇫🇷 impasse

🇪🇸 jaque mate

🇹🇷 beraberlik

🇰🇷 교착 상태

🇸🇦 طريق مسدود

🇨🇿 pat

🇸🇰 pat

🇨🇳 僵局

🇸🇮 pat

🇮🇸 patt

🇰🇿 тұйыққа тірелу

🇬🇪 პატი

🇦🇿 pat

🇲🇽 jaque mate

Etymology

The term 'stalemate' originated from the Old French word 'estal' meaning 'standstill'. It was first used in the 18th century to describe a chess position in which the player whose turn it is to move has no legal move and is not in check. Over time, the term has expanded to be used in various contexts beyond chess to signify a deadlock or impasse.

See also: inmate, inmates, mates, mating.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,745, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.