break through the gridlock

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break through the gridlock" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing overcoming obstacles or delays, particularly in contexts like politics, traffic, or problem-solving. Example: "The new policy aims to break through the gridlock that has stalled progress on infrastructure projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

How are you going to break through the gridlock in Washington?

The Guardian

I have decided not to seek reelection, so that another may put forth ideas on how to break through the gridlock and bring about positive change for our country".

The New York Times

That is the only way we break through the gridlock on immigration that has lasted decades.

TechCrunch

We know that we can break through the gridlock in Congress, but only by increasing pressure on our representatives in their home districts.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Mr. Noda's popularity ratings are in the low 20s, hurt by his failure to break through the parliamentary gridlock, to stimulate the economy and, more recently, to take a decisive stand on Japan's nuclear energy policy.

The New York Times

This group of senators has proven that it can break through the political gridlock and put the country first by producing a good and fair bill.

Huffington Post

Huntsman and Manchin, a former West Virginia governor, were traveling to New York for Monday's launch of the next phase of No Labels, an organization that launched in 2010 aiming to break through the partisan gridlock that so often characterizes governance in Washington, D.C. Since that first start, No Labels hasn't exactly been known for its effectiveness.

Huffington Post

Granting the IQA petition will mean that we can break through the myth-induced gridlock and advance the dialog on medical cannabis so that a federal policy can be established that respects the rights and needs of patients.

Huffington Post

Remarkably, a few priorities have broken through the partisan gridlock as things that appropriators from both parties agree that the U.S. budget should support.

Huffington Post

Together they will do what President Obama has not done: They will lead in breaking through the partisan gridlock in Washington, D.C. America, give them the chance to restore America's economy and restore the American dream.

Huffington Post

Second, the Obama administration used the power of the presidency to break through partisan gridlock.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "break through the gridlock", ensure the context clearly defines the specific area where progress is stalled, such as political negotiations, traffic congestion, or project management. Providing context enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "break through the gridlock" when referring to easily resolvable minor delays or inconveniences. This phrase suggests a significant and persistent blockage that requires considerable effort to overcome. Misapplying it can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break through the gridlock" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It describes the action of overcoming a significant blockage or stalemate, often in political or logistical contexts. Ludwig's examples show the phrase used to express the need to overcome political stagnation or systemic obstacles.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "break through the gridlock" is a valid and useful expression for describing the act of overcoming significant obstacles, particularly in political or logistical scenarios. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While relatively rare, the phrase is predominantly found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register. Alternatives like "overcome the impasse" or "resolve the deadlock" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When employing this phrase, ensure the context justifies the implication of a substantial and persistent blockage to enhance its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overcome the impasse

Focuses on resolving a standstill or deadlock.

resolve the deadlock

Emphasizes the act of finding a solution to a situation where no progress is being made.

end the stalemate

Highlights the termination of a situation where neither side can gain an advantage.

bypass the bottleneck

Suggests finding a way around an obstacle that is slowing progress.

break the logjam

Implies clearing an obstruction that is preventing movement or progress.

surmount the obstacle

Focuses on rising above or overcoming a challenge.

navigate through the difficulties

Highlights the process of carefully maneuvering through challenging circumstances.

find a way around the problem

Suggests creatively finding an alternative solution to avoid a direct confrontation with the obstacle.

circumvent the restrictions

Implies cleverly avoiding rules or limitations.

push through the resistance

Highlights the effort required to overcome opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "break through the gridlock" in a sentence?

You can use "break through the gridlock" when you want to express overcoming a significant obstacle that is preventing progress. For example: "The new policy aims to "break through the gridlock" in Congress."

What does "break through the gridlock" mean?

"Break through the gridlock" means to overcome a situation where progress is blocked due to conflicting interests or an inability to reach an agreement.

What can I say instead of "break through the gridlock"?

Alternatives to "break through the gridlock" include "overcome the impasse", "resolve the deadlock", or "end the stalemate". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "break the gridlock" or "break through the gridlock"?

Both "break the gridlock" and "break through the gridlock" are acceptable. The addition of "through" emphasizes the effort and process of overcoming the obstacle. Often, as shown by the examples, the two are used interchangeably.