at a standstill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a standstill" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a situation where there is no movement or progress, often due to a problem or obstacle. Example: "The negotiations between the two countries have come to a standstill as neither side is willing to compromise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We're at a standstill.

The New York Times

Prices are at a standstill.

The Economist

Cambodia is at a standstill.

The New York Times

Business is at a standstill.

The New York Times

"We're now at a standstill".

The New York Times

Asia at a standstill.

The Guardian

I found myself at a standstill.

The New York Times

Now, it is all at a standstill.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

(See "Human Therapeutic Cloning at a Standstill").

MIT Technology Review

Negotiations were at a standstill.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Traffic was at a standstill.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a lack of progress, use "at a standstill" to clearly communicate that activities or processes have ceased or are not advancing. For example, instead of saying "the project isn't moving forward", say "the project is at a standstill".

Common error

Avoid using "standing still" when you mean "at a standstill". "Standing still" refers to physically not moving, whereas "at a standstill" refers to a lack of progress or activity. For example, say "negotiations are at a standstill", not "negotiations are standing still".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a standstill" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a state of inactivity or cessation. Examples from Ludwig show it describing traffic, negotiations, or projects that have stopped progressing. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a standstill" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe a situation lacking progress or movement. As validated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, it effectively conveys that an activity or process has stopped, whether physically or abstractly. For alternative expressions, consider "at a stalemate" or "in a holding pattern", but remember that "at a standstill" is generally preferred when indicating a more prolonged lack of progress than alternatives like "at a halt". Ensure correct usage by avoiding confusion with similar-sounding phrases like "standing still", which refers to physical immobility. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately incorporate "at a standstill" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a stalemate

Indicates a situation where progress is blocked due to opposing forces or deadlock.

at a deadlock

Emphasizes a complete inability to make progress, often in negotiations or discussions.

at a standstill

Highlights a state of inactivity or lack of movement in a process or activity.

in a state of suspension

Suggests a temporary halt or interruption, implying a possibility of resumption later.

brought to a halt

Emphasizes the action of stopping or causing something to cease moving or progressing.

brought to a standstill

Highlights the action of stopping or causing something to cease moving or progressing.

at an impasse

Similar to stalemate, but can also refer to a situation where agreement seems impossible.

in a holding pattern

Suggests a temporary delay or waiting period before further action can be taken.

stuck in neutral

Implies a lack of forward momentum or direction, often due to indecision or conflicting priorities.

in suspended animation

Describes a situation that is temporarily inactive, often with the implication of potential future activity.

FAQs

How can I use "at a standstill" in a sentence?

You can use "at a standstill" to describe situations where progress has stopped. For instance, "The peace talks are currently at a standstill" or "Due to the heavy snow, traffic is at a standstill".

What phrases are similar to "at a standstill"?

Alternatives include "at a stalemate", "at a deadlock", and "in a holding pattern", each with slight differences in connotation.

Is it better to say "at a standstill" or "at a halt"?

"At a halt" and "at a standstill" are similar, but "at a standstill" often implies a more prolonged or problematic lack of progress. "At a halt" can suggest a temporary stop.

Can "at a standstill" be used to describe both physical and abstract situations?

Yes, "at a standstill" can describe physical situations (e.g., "Traffic is at a standstill") and abstract ones (e.g., "The project's development is at a standstill").