reached a stalemate

USAGE SUMMARY

'reached a stalemate' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a situation in which two opposing forces are unable to achieve a resolution and are in an impasse. For example, 'After hours of negotiations, the two sides had reached a stalemate and neither was willing to back down.'.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The war reached a stalemate with the country divided.

The Economist

Unable to agree on candidates, they reached a stalemate.

The New York Times

We've reached a stalemate, and we should find a dignified way out".

The New York Times

Talks to settle out of court appeared to have reached a stalemate.

The New York Times

When the 2000 presidential election reached a stalemate, Christopher oversaw Al Gore's unsuccessful vote recount effort in Florida.

Harvard University

The Cubs and Yankees reached a stalemate on Tuesday, and the Yankees explored other options.

The New York Times - Sports

After meeting in great secrecy for three days, the commission had reached a stalemate this weekend.

The Times

Experts say the more than two-year-long war has reached a stalemate.

The Guardian

In the months before Wednesday's attack, according to interviews with rebels, the battle around Eastern Ghouta had reached a stalemate.

The New York Times

If a transaction reached a stalemate, the parties would look at him to acknowledge that they wanted things settled.

The New Yorker

Ramos has two years remaining on his contract but negotiations for a renewal have reached a stalemate.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reached a stalemate", ensure that the context clearly defines the opposing forces or parties involved and the area in which the progress has halted. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "reached a stalemate" for minor disagreements or easily resolvable issues. This phrase is best reserved for situations involving significant opposing forces or complex problems where progress is genuinely blocked.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reached a stalemate" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that a particular process, negotiation, or conflict has arrived at a point where no further progress is being made. It is commonly used, according to Ludwig AI, to describe deadlocks in various situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reached a stalemate" is a commonly used phrase to describe a situation where progress has stopped due to disagreement or opposing forces. Ludwig AI validates it as grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its neutral register allows usage across formal and informal settings, with the most frequent context being news and media. Related phrases include "reached an impasse" and "came to a standstill", offering alternative ways to express the same concept. When using the phrase, make sure the context clearly defines the involved parties and the area where progress has halted to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reached an impasse

This alternative suggests a deadlock in negotiations or discussions.

reached a deadlock

Similar to 'reached an impasse', it indicates a complete lack of progress.

arrived at an impasse

Another way to express reaching a point where agreement is impossible.

came to a standstill

This phrase emphasizes the cessation of movement or progress.

hit a dead end

This alternative implies that further progress is impossible.

deadlocked

This single word describes a situation where no agreement can be reached.

entered a period of deadlock

Focuses on the state of being in a stalemate.

met an insurmountable obstacle

Highlights that the obstacle is too large to overcome.

ground to a halt

Suggests a gradual slowing down and eventual stop of progress.

the talks stalled

Suggests that progress in a negotiation has been interrupted.

FAQs

How can I use "reached a stalemate" in a sentence?

You can use "reached a stalemate" to describe situations where progress has stopped due to disagreement or opposing forces. For example, "Negotiations between the two companies "reached a stalemate" after several weeks of discussion."

What is a good alternative to "reached a stalemate"?

Alternatives include "reached an impasse", "came to a standstill", or "hit a dead end", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean when negotiations have "reached a stalemate"?

When negotiations have "reached a stalemate", it means that the parties involved are unable to agree, and progress has stopped. It implies a situation where no further advancement is possible without significant concessions or a change in circumstances.

Is it appropriate to use "reached a stalemate" in formal writing?

Yes, "reached a stalemate" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a neutral and widely understood phrase suitable for describing situations in business, politics, and other serious contexts. You can find real-world examples in sources like The New York Times and The Economist.