sticking point

USAGE SUMMARY

"sticking point" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is used to refer to a problem or difficulty that exists with an issue or situation and that prevents it from being resolved. For example: "The salary offered was the sticking point in the negotiation process, and we were unable to reach an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

What's the sticking point?

Independent

STILL, the price remains a sticking point.

The New York Times

Added federal revenue remains the sticking point.

The New York Times

The biggest sticking point involves auto imports.

The New York Times

Another sticking point concerns rules of origin.

The New York Times

That is a rather large sticking point.

The New York Times

However, denuclearization remains a sticking point.

Vice

The sticking point?

The Economist

This is the sticking point.

Independent

Cash is the sticking point.

The Economist

That is the sticking point.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sticking point" to pinpoint the exact issue causing a negotiation deadlock. It's more precise than simply saying there are "problems".

Common error

Don't use "sticking point" when you can't clearly identify the specific point of contention. Ensure you can articulate why it's causing a problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sticking point" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific issue or obstacle that is causing difficulty or disagreement. As Ludwig AI states, it refers to a problem that prevents a resolution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

16%

Reference

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sticking point" is a very common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote a crucial obstacle or point of disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression. Predominantly found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, it serves to highlight specific issues hindering progress. Alternative phrases include "bone of contention" and "point of disagreement". When using "sticking point", ensure you can clearly identify the why behind the issue to avoid vagueness. The phrase enjoys high source quality and expert rating, making it a reliable choice in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bone of contention

Emphasizes the aspect of a long-standing dispute, suggesting a more entrenched disagreement than "sticking point".

point of disagreement

A more general term that identifies an area where opinions or positions diverge, without necessarily implying a standstill.

contentious issue

Highlights the controversial nature of the matter, suggesting that it is likely to provoke strong debate or opposition.

thorny problem

Emphasizes the complexity and difficulty of the issue, indicating that it is challenging to resolve.

impediment

Focuses on the hindering aspect, suggesting that the issue is blocking progress or preventing a desired outcome.

obstacle

Highlights the barrier-like nature of the issue, implying that it needs to be overcome to move forward.

drawback

Refers to a disadvantage or negative aspect that is hindering the overall progress or success.

hitch

Suggests a temporary or unexpected problem that is causing a delay or disruption.

catch

Implies a hidden or unexpected condition that makes an offer or agreement less appealing.

deal breaker

Indicates an issue that is so significant that it could cause negotiations to fail completely.

FAQs

How can I use "sticking point" in a sentence?

You can use "sticking point" to describe a specific issue that is causing disagreement or preventing progress. For example, "The price was the main sticking point in the negotiations."

What can I say instead of "sticking point"?

You can use alternatives like "bone of contention", "point of disagreement", or "contentious issue" depending on the context.

Is "sticking point" formal or informal?

"Sticking point" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's commonly used in news articles, business discussions, and everyday conversations.

What's the difference between "sticking point" and "challenge"?

"Challenge" refers to a general difficulty or obstacle, while "sticking point" specifically identifies a particular issue causing disagreement or a standstill. A "sticking point" is a specific type of challenge.