Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

reach an impasse

idiomatic expression
/riːtʃ æn ˈɪm.pæs/
Definition
To come to a situation where no progress is possible, often due to differing opinions or lack of agreement.
Examples
  • The two parties reached an impasse during the negotiations when neither was willing to compromise.
  • After hours of discussion, it became clear that they had reached an impasse regarding the project deadlines.
Meaning
The phrase ‘reach an impasse’ indicates a point in a discussion or negotiation where neither side can move forward due to conflicting interests or opinions.
Synonyms
  • deadlock
  • stalemate
  • standstill
  • gridlock