gridlock
1 of 1noun/ˈɡrɪdlɑk/
Forms:gridlocks
1
a situation in which traffic is so heavily congested that movement is virtually impossible
Gridlock is a situation where traffic is unable to move because the streets or intersections are so overcrowded. This often happens when vehicles block each other from moving forward, causing a standstill. Gridlock can occur during rush hours, accidents, or when there are too many vehicles on the road for the available lanes. It makes it difficult for drivers to get to their destination and can lead to delays and frustration. Managing traffic flow and reducing the number of vehicles can help prevent gridlock.
- The city center was in complete gridlock after the accident blocked all lanes.
- We sat in gridlock for over an hour, unable to move an inch.
- Rush hour traffic led to gridlock on the freeway, and we were stuck for miles.
- The main roads were in gridlock because of the concert, with no cars able to move.
- It’s difficult to navigate through the city during peak hours because of the constant gridlock.
2
a situation in which no progress can be made because opposing parties are unable to reach agreement
- Negotiations stalled in gridlock after both sides refused to change their demands.
- Political gridlock in the legislature prevented passage of the emergency funding bill.
- Management and labor faced contract gridlock that threatened to shut down the factory.
- The committee's proposals languished in gridlock as members traded accusations instead of compromises.
- Reform efforts hit gridlock when key stakeholders disagreed on implementation details.