Impasse

/ˈɪm.pæs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A situation in which no progress is possible, especially because of disagreement; a deadlock.

The negotiations reached an impasse after both sides refused to compromise.

A position or situation from which there is no escape.

The team found themselves in a strategic impasse, unable to outmaneuver their opponents.

A road or passage having no outlet.

The map showed that the trail ended at an impasse, requiring a backtrack.

From French 'impasse', meaning 'a passage that is blocked'.

political impasse

A situation where opposing parties cannot come to an agreement in politics.

negotiation impasse

An inability to reach an agreement during negotiations.

reach an impasse

To arrive at a situation where no further progress can be made.

deadlock

A situation where no progress can be made.

stalemate

A situation in chess where a player has no legal moves and the game ends.

A point where there's no way forward.

We're at a complete impasse on this project.