impasse

Definition

A road with no exit; a cul-de-sac.

Etymology

Borrowed from French impasse.

Example Sentences

• "“It seems to me the thing's an impasse. French expression,” I explained, “meaning that we're stymied good and proper with no hope of finding a formula.”"
• ""Young man, this town is at a bit of an impasse. If you have any suggestion that might help, now would be the time to voice it.""
• "The agreement, which falls short of the sprawling changes championed by Democrats, is a significant step toward ending a yearslong impasse over gun reform legislation."