Definition

Noun: A temporary cessation of work by a group of employees as a form of protest, typically to enforce demands related to wages, hours, or working conditions.

Usage

This term is used to describe an organized, collective action where employees withhold their labor. It is a formal and neutral term often found in news, legal, and business contexts to describe labor disputes. - The primary purpose of a work stoppage is to pressure an employer to meet specific demands. - It is a planned action, usually authorized by a labor union.

Examples

• The union called for a work stoppage after negotiations over safety equipment broke down.
• The factory faced a 48-hour work stoppage that halted all production lines.
• Management is seeking a court order to end the illegal work stoppage.

Advanced Usage

• Wildcat work stoppage: A stoppage that occurs spontaneously or without the official authorization of the union leadership.
  • The wildcat work stoppage at the plant took both the company and the union officials by surprise.

Variants and Related Words

• Strike (n.): The most common synonym for a work stoppage. While often used interchangeably, "strike" can sometimes imply a longer or more formal action.
• Walkout (n.): A sudden, often brief, work stoppage where employees leave the workplace.
• Job action (n.): A broader term that can include work stoppages, slowdowns, and other forms of protest.

Synonyms

• Strike
• Walkout
• Industrial action (chiefly British English)
• Job action

Related Phrases

• To call a work stoppage: To officially initiate the action.
  • The union voted to call a work stoppage starting at midnight.
• To end a work stoppage: To conclude the action, usually after an agreement is reached.
  • The new contract was ratified, ending the work stoppage.

Noun

1. a group's refusal to work in protest against low pay or bad work conditions
   • the strike lasted more than a month before it was settled