Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
standoff
noun
/ˈstændˌɔf/
Definition
A situation in which two sides are unable to reach an agreement or move forward due to a disagreement or conflict.
Examples
- The negotiations ended in a standoff, with both sides refusing to compromise.
- During the standoff, neither party was willing to back down, resulting in a tense situation.
- The police faced a standoff with the armed suspect for several hours.
Meaning
A standoff usually refers to a deadlock or a situation where opposing parties are in a stalemate, often leading to tension or confrontation.
Synonyms
- deadlock
- stalemate
- impasse
- standstill
- confrontation
