stuck in a position

USAGE SUMMARY

"stuck in a position" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation in which someone cannot do much and is unable to move forward. For example: "I feel like I'm stuck in a position where I can't move forward with my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

So on one hand, you're kicked out by the law, on the other hand you're stuck in a position.

The New York Times

So we're stuck in a position where we know too little to commit to atheism and we know too much to commit to religion.

The Guardian

There is no longer any excuse for a professional businessperson to be stuck in a position they don't enjoy and can't control.

Forbes

This initial screening cuts out 90% of companies, most from smaller EU entrants like Slovenia, Estonia and Slovakia, and eliminates the biggest potential pitfall of an emerging fund: getting stuck in a position because there are no bids on the market.

Forbes

They probably would not label themselves losers (which is a really harsh term), but rather share a history of setbacks and unfortunate challenges that resulted in being stuck in a position substantially lower than they thought they would be in their career and life by now.

Forbes

"It feels like that because we are stuck in a position where we have all these questions and no answers," Mathis' wife of eight years, Lisa, told The Huffington Post.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

If you have less time, try just running your hair through your hands quickly and getting your hair to stick in a lively, curly-looking position.

WikiHow

Perhaps it was Nakano's bizarre style of vocal delivery (which had nothing to do with the side-effects of his character having suffered a stroke) or that Ms. Barrogga looked like an incompetent 50-year-old Meg Griffin stuck in a a position of academic authority (what many teachers refer to as a "school stupidintendent").

Huffington Post

His legs are stuck in a lotuslike position; he can't straighten them all the way.

The New York Times

He hugs me hard, but I'm made of cement, arms stuck in a down position.

The New Yorker

The accelerator in affected cars can get stuck in a depressed position, preventing the driver from slowing down.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stuck in a position", ensure the context clearly indicates the nature of the entrapment, whether it's physical, emotional, or professional. Adding details about the constraints or limitations can enhance clarity.

Common error

While "stuck in a position" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound less sophisticated. In formal contexts, consider stronger verbs or more precise descriptions of the situation to enhance the impact and credibility of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stuck in a position" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used as a predicate adjective to describe the state of a person or entity. It indicates a state of being trapped, unable to progress, or limited in movement or change. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stuck in a position" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a state of being trapped or unable to progress. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly formal, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly news and media, and carries a neutral tone. When writing, ensure the context clarifies the nature of the entrapment and consider stronger alternatives for increased sophistication in formal settings. Common related phrases include "trapped in a situation" and "caught in a bind", each with slightly different nuances. The phrase serves to express frustration and limitation within specific circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

caught in a bind

Implies being in a difficult situation where any choice leads to negative consequences.

trapped in a situation

Focuses more on the overall circumstances rather than a specific role or location.

in a deadlock

Highlights a state of standstill or stalemate, where progress is impossible.

at an impasse

Similar to a deadlock, but often used in negotiations or discussions.

cornered in a predicament

Implies a more difficult or dangerous situation with limited escape options.

in a stalemate

Similar to "in a deadlock", often describes a situation without resolution.

in a fix

Indicates a troublesome or awkward situation that needs resolving.

immobilized in a circumstance

Highlights a lack of movement or progress due to external factors.

constrained in a role

Emphasizes the limitations imposed by a specific function or duty.

embroiled in a difficulty

Suggests involvement in a complex or troublesome issue.

FAQs

What does "stuck in a position" mean?

The phrase "stuck in a position" describes a situation where someone feels trapped or unable to progress or change their current circumstances. It often implies a lack of control or agency over one's situation.

What are some alternative phrases for "stuck in a position"?

You can use alternatives like "trapped in a situation", "caught in a bind", or "at an impasse" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "stuck in a position"?

Yes, the phrase "stuck in a position" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "stuck in a position"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation where someone is facing difficulty progressing or changing their circumstances, and feels limited or constrained by their current situation. Consider alternatives like "constrained in a role" or "in a deadlock" for different nuances.