Standstill: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is best used when you want to describe a situation where everything has come to a complete stop, often unexpectedly or abruptly.

• Traffic came to a standstill due to the accident
• The negotiations are at a standstill

Appropriate in contexts where an action or movement is intentionally stopped. It can imply a sense of urgency or command, often used in more formal or serious situations.

• The officer ordered everyone to halt
• All construction work must halt immediately during the inspection

A very common word used in a wide range of situations to indicate that something has come to an end or that someone needs to cease doing something.

• Please stop talking during the movie
• The car stopped at the red light

This term is suitable when you describe a temporary stop or break with the intention to resume the activity later.

• She took a pause to catch her breath
• We'll pause the meeting for a short break

Best used when describing a period of inactivity or lack of progress, often with a negative connotation, particularly in economic, social, or personal contexts.

• The economy is suffering from stagnation
• Personal growth can lead to stagnation if new challenges are not pursued

Used to describe a situation where all activity has stopped, but it doesn’t necessarily imply tension or conflict.

• The construction project came to a standstill due to funding issues
• Traffic is at a standstill due to the accident

Often used in negotiations or discussions to describe a point where no progress can be made because of disagreement.

• The talks reached an impasse when both sides refused to compromise
• They hit an impasse while discussing the terms of the contract

Used to describe a situation where two parties cannot agree and nothing can move forward, often in negotiations or decision-making.

• The negotiations between the two countries reached a deadlock
• The jury was in deadlock for hours, unable to reach a unanimous decision

Used to describe a situation in games, negotiations, or conflicts where neither side can win or make any progress.

• The chess game ended in a stalemate
• The debate ended in a stalemate, with neither side willing to budge

Primarily used in the context of traffic, where all movement is blocked, but can also refer to a situation where progress is blocked in an organization or system.

• The city experiences gridlock every rush hour
• Political gridlock has prevented the passing of new legislation