paralysis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "paralysis" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing a state of being unable to move or act, often metaphorically to describe inaction or indecision. Example: "The sudden news of the layoffs left the entire team in a state of paralysis, unable to make decisions about their future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are betting on the eventual paralysis of the Rouhani government, and their most important card is his defeat in these nuclear negotiations.

The Guardian

Indeed, one factor behind the rise of the Nazi apologist, Jörg Haider, is the political paralysis resulting from the Austrian economic miracle.

The Guardian - Business

I worked very, very hard, in days of chaos and paralysis to keep his government running.

The Guardian

There is also some paralysis in the legs.

The Guardian

Polio, a highly contagious viral disease that causes lifelong paralysis or even death, has been the target of massive education and child vaccination campaigns in several countries.

The Guardian

They will not get different policies, but paralysis.

The Guardian - Opinion

A few days ago, the American ambassador in Beirut said he was deeply concerned about the "paralysis of Lebanon's political institutions", and called for new elections to be held as soon as possible.

The Guardian - Opinion

Only a few isolated voices – such as former cabinet ministers Laurent Wauquiez and Michel Rocard – argue in favour of a Brexit, the latter considering that Britain is principally to blame for the paralysis in European decision-making.

The Guardian

There is a particularly good bit in John Updike's stories about Henry Bech, a fictional New York novelist who writes a great first book and then spends the decades that follow in a state of grand creative paralysis, strolling from glamorous literary event to TV talk-show couch.

The Guardian - Sport

It opens the vessels and deals with paralysis.

The Guardian

Kevin Rudd, as prime minister, struggled to do that and by the days of 2010, that struggle had resulted in paralysis in the government".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "paralysis" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly indicates the inability to act or progress, providing sufficient detail to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "paralysis" in everyday, casual conversations where simpler terms like "inactivity" or "standstill" might be more appropriate. "Paralysis" often carries a more serious or formal connotation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "paralysis" is as a noun. It refers to the complete or partial loss of the ability to move or a state of being unable to act. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

26%

Science

26%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "paralysis" is a versatile noun frequently used to describe a state of immobility or inability to act, applicable in physical, political, and organizational contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in varied settings. Predominantly found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, "paralysis" carries a neutral to formal register. For alternatives, consider "immobility", "inaction", or "stagnation" to add nuance. When using "paralysis", ensure clarity, especially in metaphorical contexts, and avoid overuse in casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Immobilization

Focuses on the state of being unable to move, often physically.

Inaction

Emphasizes the absence of action or activity.

Inactivity

Refers to the state of not being active or engaged.

Stagnation

Highlights a lack of progress or development, implying a standstill.

Standstill

Indicates a complete stop or halt in activity or progress.

Incapacity

Stresses the lack of ability or power to do something.

Deadlock

Signifies a situation where progress is blocked due to opposing forces.

Gridlock

Indicates a situation of complete blockage or standstill, often in traffic or politics.

Impotence

Emphasizes a feeling of helplessness or lack of power to change a situation.

Apathy

Highlights a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

FAQs

How is "paralysis" used in a sentence?

"Paralysis" can describe a physical condition or a state of inaction. For example, "The disease caused paralysis in his legs" or "The company was in a state of paralysis after the merger".

What are some synonyms for "paralysis"?

Alternatives include "immobility", "inaction", "stagnation", or "standstill", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "paralysis" to describe a political situation?

Yes, "paralysis" is often used to describe situations where political institutions are unable to make progress or take action due to disagreement or conflict. For instance, you might say "The government is experiencing political paralysis".

What's the difference between "paralysis" and "apathy"?

"Paralysis" refers to an inability to move or act, while "apathy" refers to a lack of interest or concern. "Paralysis" implies a lack of power or ability, while "apathy" implies a lack of motivation.