gridlock

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'gridlock' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to traffic congestion, but it can also be used figuratively to refer to any situation in which progress is blocked or stalled. Example: We have reached a gridlock in negotiations and now cannot seem to make any progress.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This week's protests may be the most chaotic scenes Hong Kong has experienced since a violent, anti-British riot racked the city in 1967 – and many residents are taking it as evidence that the "one country, two systems" framework is fundamentally flawed, a recipe for political gridlock and social unrest.

The Guardian

Just as the Tea Party has turned Congress into a paralysed, self-hating institution, an alliance of anti-European Union parties could give Europe its own version of "gridlock" if they win enough of the popular vote in next year's European elections.

The Guardian - Opinion

He did not spell out a clear position on any of the other major budget measures, though he said he did not want to see "gridlock" in parliament.

The Guardian

Even on the most generous reading, his proposals offer immense opportunities for a Westminster version of the gridlock that has brought the US system of federal government almost to its knees.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the gridlock is most damaging to Republicans who, four months after electoral gains that gave them control over both chambers of the legislature, have allowed bitter internal divisions to impede effective government.

The Guardian

On the other hand, Canberrans speak fondly of how easy it is to get around – unlike the gridlock of Sydney and Melbourne.

The Guardian

But as the US hits political gridlock over the debt ceiling yet again, can it really be said that there is any "right" system as such?

The Guardian - Opinion

The ethnic politics that has created gridlock in postwar Bosnia has become the norm in Brčko, too.

The Guardian

To protest UAL's decision and show solidarity with their peers, more than 100 students gathered outside the Royal Courts on Tuesday, causing gridlock for central London drivers by marching to UAL's Holborn offices and creating a roadblock, before marching back to Central Saint Martins.

The Guardian

A year ago who would have expected to hear phrases such as 'authority of the House of Commons', 'an elected House of Lords' and 'recipe for gridlock' being beamed out on Radio 2? The post of constitutional affairs spokesman is one of those imaginative Tory euphemisms forced upon the party after May 1.

The Guardian

For him, cycling offers a way to overcome congestion – rather than joining the motorised gridlock, he can zip through one of Kathmandu's many narrower, quieter alleyways to get wherever he needs.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gridlock" figuratively, ensure the context clearly establishes the system or process being blocked. Avoid ambiguity by specifying what is not moving or progressing.

Common error

While "gridlock" is a vivid term, avoid using it excessively in informal settings. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your language sound overly dramatic. Opt for simpler terms like "delay" or "stuck" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "gridlock" is as a noun, referring to a state of complete blockage or standstill. It can also function as a verb, meaning to cause such a blockage. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gridlock" is a versatile term primarily used as a noun to describe a state of complete blockage, whether in traffic or figurative situations like political or economic stagnation. Ludwig AI underscores its grammatical correctness and common usage. While maintaining a neutral to formal register, its frequent appearance in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts highlights its relevance in describing complex systemic issues. When writing, it's best to ensure the context clarifies the specific system or process being blocked to avoid ambiguity, as using related phrases such as "deadlock" or "standstill" might be more fitting based on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deadlock

Direct synonym referring to a situation, typically in negotiations, where no agreement can be reached.

impasse

Similar to deadlock, representing a situation where no progress can be made, especially in negotiations.

logjam

Similar to "gridlock", it denotes a situation where progress is obstructed due to accumulated obstacles.

standstill

Indicates a complete halt in movement or progress, similar to one aspect of "gridlock".

impasse

Refers specifically to a situation where no progress is possible, particularly in negotiations or discussions.

paralysis

Emphasizes the inability to move or function, applicable to both physical and systemic contexts.

stalemate

Implies a situation where neither side can win, leading to a standstill, often in competitive scenarios.

bottleneck

Describes a point of congestion that restricts flow, often used in logistical or process-oriented contexts.

congestion

Highlights the state of being overcrowded or blocked, whether in traffic or other systems.

stagnation

Indicates a lack of growth or progress, often used in economic or developmental contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "gridlock" in a sentence?

"Gridlock" can be used to describe traffic congestion or a standstill in a political or business context. For example: "The city experienced severe traffic gridlock after the accident", or "The negotiations reached a gridlock due to conflicting demands".

What are some alternatives to the word "gridlock"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "deadlock", "standstill", "impasse", or "stalemate" to convey a similar meaning.

What's the difference between "gridlock" and "congestion"?

"Congestion" refers to a state of being overcrowded or blocked, while "gridlock" implies a complete standstill. Congestion can lead to gridlock if it becomes severe enough.

Can "gridlock" be used in contexts other than traffic?

Yes, "gridlock" can be used figuratively to describe any situation where progress is blocked or stalled, such as political gridlock or a gridlock in negotiations.