Basic Details
Word: Stalemate
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A situation in a game or discussion where no progress can be made, as both sides are unable to win or move forward.
Synonyms: Deadlock, impasse
Antonyms: Victory, resolution
Idioms and Phrases
- Stalemate in negotiations: Refers to a situation where both parties cannot agree on terms. Example: "The peace talks reached a stalemate, with neither side willing to compromise."
- Drive someone into a stalemate: To cause someone to become stuck in a difficult situation with no way out. Example: "The disagreement on the project deadline drove the team into a stalemate."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The chess game ended in a stalemate when neither player could checkmate the other.
Example 2: After hours of debate, the council meetings reached a stalemate over the new policy.
Example 3: The negotiations between the two countries resulted in a stalemate, leaving many issues unresolved.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the term "stalemate" originates from chess? It was first used in the 19th century to describe a situation where a player has no legal moves left but is not in check, resulting in a draw!
Famous Quote
"In life, as in chess, forethought wins." Charles Dickens. This reminds us that planning ahead can prevent a stalemate!
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "stalemate" mean?
a) A sudden victory
b) A situation with no progress
c) A type of game
d) A strategy for winning
Answer: b) A situation with no progress
2. Which of these is a synonym of "stalemate"?
a) Victory
b) Deadlock
c) Progress
d) Solution
Answer: b) Deadlock
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "stalemate"?
a) Impasse
b) Resolution
c) Standstill
d) Draw
Answer: b) Resolution
4. Which sentence uses "stalemate" correctly?
a) The boss was very pleased with the stalemate of the project at the meeting.
b) The stalemate in the game meant both players had to start again.
c) After hours of effort, they reached a stalemate in their discussions.
d) She enjoyed stalemate in singing the new song.
Answer: c) After hours of effort, they reached a stalemate in their discussions.
5. Which idiom refers to a situation where no progress can be made?
a) Stalemate in negotiations
b) To draw a line
c) Jump the gun
d) A stitch in time
Answer: a) Stalemate in negotiations
