absolutely deadlocked

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absolutely deadlocked" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where no progress can be made due to opposing forces or positions, often in negotiations or decision-making processes. Example: "The negotiations reached a point where both sides were absolutely deadlocked, unable to agree on any terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

After the race-altering shock of a disastrous first debate for the president, back on October 3rd, this third debate left the contest where it has been for some days: absolutely deadlocked.(Photo credit: AFP).

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Negotiations remained deadlocked today.

The New York Times

"This is a deadlocked situation".

The New York Times

It ended with a deadlocked jury.

The New York Times

"Absolutely, absolutely, absolutely, absolutely".

The New York Times

Now the leaders are more deadlocked.

The New York Times

So bifurcated government would become deadlocked government.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jurors said they were hopelessly deadlocked.

The New York Times

The sides are holding occasional negotiations but remain deadlocked.

The New York Times

A deadlocked arms race with rival corporations, Mr Matthews argues.

The Economist

The deadlocked IWC may be groping towards a similar solution.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "absolutely deadlocked" when you want to emphasize the complete lack of progress or agreement in a situation, especially in formal contexts like negotiations or political discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "absolutely deadlocked" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "completely stuck" or "at a standstill" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absolutely deadlocked" functions as an intensifier (absolutely) modifying an adjective (deadlocked). According to Ludwig, it is a correct and usable construction in written English, conveying a strong sense of impasse.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "absolutely deadlocked" is a grammatically correct and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as an intensifier modifying an adjective, conveying a strong sense of complete impasse or stalemate. While less common, its usage is generally appropriate in neutral to professional contexts, particularly in news and media, to describe situations where progress is impossible. For more casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "completely stuck" or "at a standstill" may be preferred. In essence, use "absolutely deadlocked" to underscore the severity and completeness of a stalemate in formal discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely gridlocked

Emphasizes the sense of being blocked and unable to move forward.

totally stalemated

Highlights the lack of progress or resolution in a situation.

utterly impassable

Focuses on the impossibility of overcoming the current obstacle or deadlock.

completely stuck

Simple and direct way to express being unable to proceed.

firmly at an impasse

Formal expression indicating that discussions or negotiations have reached a standstill.

hopelessly deadlocked

Emphasizes the lack of hope for a resolution.

irreconcilably divided

Highlights the deep division preventing any agreement or progress.

at a complete standstill

Emphasizes the total lack of movement or progress.

in a total deadlock

Directly states the existence of a deadlock with emphasis on its completeness.

permanently deadlocked

Suggests a long-lasting or indefinite state of deadlock.

FAQs

How to use "absolutely deadlocked" in a sentence?

You can use "absolutely deadlocked" to describe situations where progress is impossible due to opposing forces. For example: "The negotiations reached a point where both sides were absolutely deadlocked."

What can I say instead of "absolutely deadlocked"?

You can use alternatives like "completely gridlocked", "totally stalemated", or "completely stuck" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "absolutely deadlocked" or "totally deadlocked"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "absolutely deadlocked" adds a stronger emphasis on the completeness of the deadlock. Consider which level of emphasis is appropriate for your context.

In what kind of situations is it appropriate to use "absolutely deadlocked"?

"Absolutely deadlocked" is best used in formal settings, such as political debates, business negotiations, or legal discussions, to describe a situation where no progress can be made due to irreconcilable differences. In more casual contexts, simpler phrases may be more suitable.