# bog down

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bog-down
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to get stuck or slowed down

phrasal verb · CEFR B2

to become so involved in small details or problems that you cannot move forward with a task.

For teachers: to become impeded or stuck, preventing further progress; most commonly used metaphorically regarding tasks, discussions, or processes.

- We shouldn't get bogged down in the small details before we agree on the main plan.
- The negotiations bogged down in a series of minor disputes over phrasing, preventing the parties from reaching a final agreement by the deadline.

Usage: Often used in the passive voice ('get bogged down' or 'be bogged down') followed by the preposition 'in'.

### 3. physical sticking

phrasal verb · CEFR B2

to get stuck in soft, wet ground like mud.

For teachers: to become physically stuck in a bog or similar soft, wet terrain. The literal origin of the metaphorical senses.

- The heavy truck bogged down in the muddy field after the storm.
- The armored vehicles bogged down in the marshy terrain, leaving the infantry without the mobile support they had anticipated.

## Examples

- Don't get bogged down in the small details.
- The project got bogged down in legal discussions and took much longer than we expected.
- The peace negotiations were bogged down by historical grievances that neither side was willing to overlook for the sake of the future.

## Usage notes

- Teaching tip: explain the literal origin of a vehicle getting stuck in a 'bog' (wet, muddy ground) to help students visualize the feeling of being unable to move forward.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.