Standoff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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standoff
[หstรฆndษหf ]
Definitions
in a conflict
A situation in which agreement in an argument does not seem possible; deadlock. A state of indecision or stalemate, as in a contest. A confrontation between armed or opposing forces.
Synonyms
deadlock, impasse, stalemate, standstill.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| standoff |
Use when two sides in a conflict are unable to agree or make any moves, often creating a tense situation. It is commonly used in political, military, or law enforcement scenarios.
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| deadlock |
Appropriate when discussions or negotiations can't move forward due to equal opposing forces or ideas. This term is often used in political, business, or legal contexts.
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| stalemate |
Commonly used in chess but also in other situations where neither side can proceed or win. It implies that both parties are stuck with no beneficial moves left.
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| impasse |
Used to describe a situation where no progress can be made due to a complete lack of options. It conveys a sense of hopelessness or frustration.
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| standstill |
Describes a situation where all activity has stopped. It is often used in traffic, business operations, or other scenarios where any form of movement or progress has halted.
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Examples of usage
- The negotiations reached a standoff as neither side was willing to compromise.
- After hours of intense debate, the meeting ended in a standoff.
- The standoff between the two countries led to increased tension.
- The standoff at the border lasted for days.
- The standoff ended peacefully without any casualties.
in sports
A position in which no progress can be made or no advancement is possible. A situation in which neither side is able to score or gain an advantage.
Synonyms
deadlock, draw, stalemate, tie.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| standoff |
This term is often used in situations of confrontation, particularly in a tense, potentially violent scenario where two parties are facing each other and neither is willing to back down.
|
| tie |
Like 'draw', 'tie' is used in competitive scenarios to indicate that two participants have finished with the same score or outcome; common in sports and elections.
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| draw |
This term is usually used in competitive contexts, such as sports, games, or elections, indicating that neither side has won.
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| deadlock |
Deadlock is commonly used in contexts where progress is completely halted due to a disagreement or impasse, especially in negotiations, politics, or business.
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| stalemate |
Stalemate is often used in chess but can also apply to any situation where neither side can make a move that will lead to victory, leading to a situation where no progress can be made.
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Examples of usage
- The game ended in a 0-0 standoff.
- The teams were locked in a standoff for the entire match.
- The standoff continued until the final whistle blew.
in a conflict
To be at a standstill or impasse; to reach a deadlock. To confront or face off against someone or something.
Synonyms
confront, freeze, halt, stall.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| standoff |
Use when two parties are in a deadlock and cannot come to an agreement due to a conflict, suggesting tension.
|
| stall |
Use when something is delayed or prevented from making progress, often deliberately or unintentionally so.
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| halt |
Use when stopping an activity, movement, or process, often in a formal or sudden manner.
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| freeze |
Use when something or someone suddenly stops moving or functioning, often due to shock, fear, or uncertainty.
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| confront |
Use when someone faces or challenges another person about an issue or problem, often suggesting a direct or bold approach.
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Examples of usage
- The negotiations have standoffed and no progress is being made.
- The two sides standoffed for days before reaching a resolution.
- The armies standoffed at the border, ready for conflict.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In films and TV shows, standoffs are often climax points, showcasing tension between protagonists and antagonists.
- Famous standoffs in cinema include moments like the duel scenes in Westerns, where characters face each other at high noon.
- Video games frequently use standoff mechanics in strategy and combat scenarios, emphasizing the importance of timing and decision-making.
Psychology
- Standoffs can create high stress for those involved, as the unresolved tension may lead to increased anxiety and anticipation.
- The phenomenon of cognitive dissonance can occur during standoffs, where individuals hold conflicting beliefs about the confrontation.
- Studies suggest that non-verbal communication skills play a crucial role in resolving standoffs, as body language can signal intentions.
History
- Standoffs have historically occurred in political disputes, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, where opposing sides faced off without direct combat.
- The term applies to various protests and riots, where demonstrators and authorities may reach an impasse with neither side willing to back down.
- Famous historical events like the Siege of Washington in 1861 involved standoffs, where one force awaited a weaker opponentโs actions.
Literature
- In novels, standoffs are often used as plot devices to develop character arcs, illuminating their fears or motivations.
- Authors use standoff situations to create suspense, allowing readers to ponder the possible outcomes of a confrontation.
- Classic literature, like plays by Shakespeare, frequently incorporates standoff elements, showcasing the psychological tension among characters.
Origin of 'standoff'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'standoff' emerged in the mid-19th century, derived from the combination of 'stand' and 'off', denoting a clear separation.
- Originally, 'stand off' described the act of keeping a distance, often to avoid conflict.
- The term gained popularity in the early 20th century, especially related to legal and military contexts.
The term 'standoff' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the combination of 'stand' and 'off'. It initially referred to a situation in which two parties were at a distance from each other and unwilling to move closer, often in a conflict or dispute. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including sports contexts and non-physical confrontations. The concept of a standoff has been a recurring theme in human history, reflecting the complexities of negotiation, conflict resolution, and competition.
See also: bystander, outstanding, stand, standard, standards, standby, standing, standings, standoffish, standpoint, standpoints, standstill, upstanding, withstand.