# gridlock

/ˈɡɹɪdˌɫɑk/ (US) · /ɡɹˈɪdlɒk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gridlock
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

a situation where nothing can move because everything is blocked. It often describes heavy traffic or a political situation where no one can agree.

For teachers: a state of total blockage or stalemate, typically in traffic or political negotiations. Often used to describe a situation where progress is impossible due to conflicting interests or physical obstructions.

## Examples

- The city is in gridlock because of the construction.
- The debate ended in gridlock as neither side was willing to compromise on the budget cuts.
- Urban planners are struggling to alleviate the gridlock that occurs every morning when thousands of commuters converge on the downtown area simultaneously.

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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.