a sticking point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sticking point" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a specific issue or obstacle that prevents progress in a discussion or negotiation. Example: "The budget was agreed upon, but the allocation of resources became a sticking point in the negotiations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

STILL, the price remains a sticking point.

The New York Times

Propriety is also a sticking point.

The New York Times

The power company remained a sticking point.

The New Yorker

But people issues remain a sticking point.

Harvard Business Review

Money quickly became a sticking point.

The Washington Post

Money had never been a sticking point.

The New York Times

So far Luxembourg has been a sticking point.

The Economist

Still, the public financing remains a sticking point for critics.

The New York Times - Sports

The term "affordable," meanwhile, appears to be a sticking point.

The New York Times

But the Gross case has been a sticking point.

The New York Times

If that wasn't a sticking point then, why now?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context makes it clear what is being prevented or delayed by the "sticking point".

Common error

Avoid using "a sticking point" to describe general difficulties or challenges. It's best used when a specific issue is actively preventing forward movement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sticking point" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific issue or obstacle that hinders progress. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sticking point" is a commonly used phrase that effectively identifies a specific obstacle or issue preventing progress. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and applicable across various contexts, from news and media to academia and business. When writing, ensure that the context clearly defines what is being hindered by the "sticking point". While alternatives like "a thorny issue" or "an obstacle" exist, "a sticking point" offers a distinct and widely recognized way to pinpoint specific impediments in discussions and negotiations. Use it to clearly and concisely highlight those problem areas needing resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorny issue

Focuses on the problematic nature of the issue itself, emphasizing its complexity and potential to cause difficulties.

an obstacle

Implies a blockage or impediment preventing progress.

a stumbling block

Highlights the potential to cause errors or setbacks.

a point of contention

Emphasizes disagreement and dispute surrounding a particular matter.

a contentious issue

Stresses the controversial nature of the problem, suggesting potential for conflict.

a difficult matter

Highlights the complexity and the effort required for resolution.

an impediment

Implies something that hinders or obstructs progress, often in a more formal context.

a challenge

Indicates a difficult task or problem that requires effort and skill to overcome.

a snag

Suggests a minor or unexpected problem that temporarily halts progress.

a hurdle

Implies an obstacle that must be overcome to achieve a goal.

FAQs

What does the phrase "a sticking point" mean?

The phrase "a sticking point" refers to a specific issue or obstacle that is causing disagreement or preventing progress in a negotiation, discussion, or project.

What can I say instead of "a sticking point"?

You can use alternatives like "a thorny issue", "an obstacle", or "a point of contention" depending on the context.

How to use "a sticking point" in a sentence?

For example, you could say: "The budget was agreed upon, but the allocation of resources became "a sticking point" in the negotiations." Or, "The main "a sticking point" in the contract negotiations is the healthcare benefits package."

What's the difference between "a sticking point" and "a sore point"?

"A sticking point" refers to an issue that prevents agreement or progress, while "a sore point" refers to a sensitive issue that causes emotional distress or offense when discussed.