break the deadlock
/breɪk ðə ˈded.lɒk/
Meaning
This expression means to resolve a situation in which no progress can be made because the parties involved cannot reach an agreement. It is commonly used in formal discussions, negotiations, politics, and serious disputes. The tone is objective and professional, highlighting a breakthrough after a period of frustration.
Examples
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The mediator proposed a compromise to break the deadlock between the union and management.
The mediator proposed a compromise to break the deadlock between the union and management.
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After hours of intense debate, a sudden concession from the defense helped break the deadlock.
After hours of intense debate, a sudden concession from the defense helped break the deadlock.
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We need a fresh perspective if we are going to break the deadlock on this project's budget.
We need a fresh perspective if we are going to break the deadlock on this project's budget.
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Her unexpected phone call finally broke the deadlock, allowing negotiations to resume.
Her unexpected phone call finally broke the deadlock, allowing negotiations to resume.
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Neither side was willing to back down, making it almost impossible to break the deadlock.
Neither side was willing to back down, making it almost impossible to break the deadlock.
Common Mistakes
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✗ We tried to break the dead lock.
✓ We tried to break the deadlock.
'Deadlock' is a single compound word, not two separate words.
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✗ The new offer broke the deadlocked.
✓ The new offer broke the deadlock.
Use the noun 'deadlock' after the verb 'break', not the adjective 'deadlocked'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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A sudden compromise helped to ___ after days of silent negotiation.
💡 Resolve a situation where progress has stopped.
Show answer
break the deadlock
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The board of directors is meeting tonight to try and ___ over the acquisition.
💡 Overcome the standstill.
Show answer
break the deadlock