stalemate

Definitions

A situation in which further action or progress by opposing parties seems impossible.

A position in chess where a player is not in check but has no legal moves, resulting in a draw.

Examples

The chess match ended in a stalemate after four hours of intense play.

Negotiations reached a stalemate when neither side was willing to compromise on the budget.

The two armies remained in a stalemate for months, with neither side able to gain any territory.

Synonyms

deadlock impasse standoff gridlock draw tie dead end

Antonyms

breakthrough progress resolution agreement advance solution success