impasse
im-PASS
/ˈɪmpæs/
A situation in which no progress is possible, especially because of a disagreement.
Often used in formal negotiations or diplomacy; it implies a 'dead-end' street where neither party can move forward.
The story behind the word. Borrowed from French in the 19th century, 'impasse' literally means a road that has no exit—a cul-de-sac. It was popularized in English to describe political situations where all paths forward are blocked.
Word relationships
- deadlock: Deadlock often implies a more mechanical or forceful stoppage, while impasse is more common in discussion.
- breakthrough: A breakthrough is the sudden solution or progress that ends an impasse.
Commonly confused with
- deadlock: They are nearly synonymous, but 'impasse' is slightly more common in the context of intellectual or verbal disagreement.
Word family
- impasses (noun): plural form of impasse
Collocations
- reach an impasse
- break the impasse
- diplomatic impasse
Idioms & expressions
- at an impasse
Example sentences
- "The negotiations reached an impasse when neither side would compromise on the border issue." Political negotiation
- "The peace talks have reached an impasse, and there is little hope of a breakthrough." Historical diplomacy
Memory hook
Think of 'IM-POSSIBLE to PASS'. If you are at an impasse, you simply cannot pass the obstacle. A road with a wall at the end.
When not to use
Avoid using for physical traffic jams; use 'gridlock' instead.
Fun facts
- The word was originally used primarily in architecture and city planning before becoming a staple of political journalism.
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