Definition

Adjective 1. In a state of deadlock or impasse: Describes a situation where progress is completely halted because opposing parties are equally powerful or determined, and neither will yield or can force a win. 2. In chess, having no legal move but not being in check: Describes the position of a king in the game of chess that is not in check but cannot move without placing itself in check, resulting in a draw.

Usage

The adjective "stalemated" is used to describe a situation, negotiation, conflict, or game that has reached a point where no further action is possible and no side can achieve victory. It implies a frustrating standstill.

Examples

• The peace talks have been stalemated for months, with neither side willing to compromise on the core issue.
• After hours of debate, the committee was completely stalemated, unable to reach a decision.
• In the chess match, he cleverly left his opponent stalemated, securing a draw from a losing position.

Advanced Usage

• "stalemated conflict/war": A prolonged conflict where neither side can gain a decisive military advantage.
  • The trench warfare resulted in a stalemated conflict that lasted for years.
• "to become stalemated": The process of reaching a deadlock.
  • The negotiations became stalemated over the single issue of border control.

Variants and Related Words

• Stalemate (noun): The state or condition of being stalemated.
  • The discussions have reached a stalemate.
• Deadlocked (adjective): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably in non-chess contexts to describe an unresolved conflict.
  • The jury was deadlocked.

Synonyms

• Deadlocked
• At an impasse
• Gridlocked
• Stuck
• Logjammed

Antonyms

• Resolved
• Settled
• Advancing
• Progressing
• Unblocked

Adjective

1. at a complete standstill because of opposition of two unrelenting forces or factions
   • the chess game ended with white stalemated
   • the two factions are deadlocked over fringe benefits