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stuck

adj.
US //ˈstək// UK //stˈʌk// stuck
  1. 1 unable to move (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    fixed in one place and unable to be moved or pulled away.

    physically fixed or wedged in a particular position so that movement is impossible.

    Example

    The drawer is stuck and I cannot pull it open no matter how hard I try.

    Example

    The ring became stuck on her finger after the long flight, likely due to the cabin pressure causing her hands to swell slightly.
  2. 2 unable to progress (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    unable to continue doing something because it is too difficult or you do not have the answer.

    unable to proceed with a task or line of reasoning due to a lack of information or a mental block.

    Example

    I got stuck on the third question of the exam and wasted ten minutes.

    Example

    The research team felt stuck after the initial data failed to support their hypothesis, forcing them to reconsider their entire methodology.
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  1. 3 trapped in a situation (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    forced to stay in a place or situation that you do not like.

    compelled to remain in an unpleasant or restrictive situation with no obvious means of escape.

    Example

    We were stuck in traffic for three hours on the way to the airport.

    Example

    He felt stuck in a dead-end job, unable to resign because of his mortgage but finding no satisfaction in his daily responsibilities.
Origin

Compare stoccado.

Idioms5 entries

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