impasse — English Dictionary

Noun

1. A road with no exit.

2. A deadlock or stalemate situation in which no progress can be made.

   Usage

   • Figurative

   Examples

   “It seems to me the thing's an impasse. French expression,” I explained, “meaning that we're stymied good and proper with no hope of finding a formula.”

   "Young man, this town is at a bit of an impasse. If you have any suggestion that might help, now would be the time to voice it."

   More examples (1)

   The agreement, which falls short of the sprawling changes championed by Democrats, is a significant step toward ending a yearslong impasse over gun reform legislation.

Noun

1. a situation in which no progress can be made or no advancement is possible

   Synonyms

   deadlockdead endstalematestandstill

   Broader terms

   situation

   Examples

   reached an impasse on the negotiations

2. a street with only one way in or out

   Synonyms

   blind alleycul de sacdead-end street

   Broader terms

   thoroughfare