Vocabulary Spotlight
Deadlock
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A situation in which progress is impossible, typically because opposing parties cannot reach an agreement.
“Negotiations reached a deadlock, with both sides refusing to compromise.”
Pronunciation
[ded-lok]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Impasse
Gridlock
Standoff
Standstill
Antonyms
Breakthrough
Agreement
Progress
Solution
Related Words
Deadlocking (verb)
Deadlock resolution (phrase)
Word Origin
The term “deadlock” originated in the 18th century, initially referring to a lock that could not be opened from either side, hence creating a “dead” stop. By the mid-19th century, it had taken on a figurative meaning, describing any standstill where no progress could be made due to opposing forces.
Word Family
Noun: Deadlock – A situation where progress is impossible due to opposing views.
Verb: Deadlock (used with “is”) – To become stuck or unable to proceed due to disagreement.
Adjective: Deadlocked – In a state where no progress can be made.
Mnemonics
Think “Dead” + “Lock” – a situation that is locked up completely, where nothing can move forward.
Another mnemonic: Imagine two cars blocking each other in a narrow road – each “locked” in place by the other.
Industry-specific Usage
Politics
Political negotiations often reach deadlock when opposing parties cannot agree on policies, preventing legislation from moving forward.
Technology
In computing, a deadlock can occur when two or more processes are unable to proceed because each is waiting for the other to release resources.
Business
In business negotiations, deadlocks can arise during contract discussions if parties cannot reach a mutually agreeable solution, often requiring mediation.
In Context
In everyday scenarios, people often experience deadlocks in group decision-making when opinions are sharply divided. In academia, research collaborations can hit a deadlock if partners have different methodologies. Societal discussions on controversial issues may also encounter deadlocks when compromise seems unreachable.