Quagmired

The adjective 'quagmired' describes a situation where someone or something is stuck or trapped in a difficult, complex, or precarious position, often one from which escape is difficult or impossible. It implies a situation of deep trouble or uncertainty, akin to being stuck in a swamp or bog, unable to move forward or extricate oneself. This can be a literal or metaphorical trap, applying to physical locations, political situations, personal problems, or any circumstance that causes stagnation and struggle.

Quagmired meaning with examples

• The rescue team was quagmired in the dense jungle, their progress hampered by torrential rain and treacherous terrain. Heavy equipment was completely ineffective in the muck. Their mission was on hold. It would take days just to find a pathway. Morale was also starting to decline as they had run out of food.
• After a series of poor decisions, the company found itself quagmired in debt, facing bankruptcy and struggling to maintain investor confidence. It was a difficult position. Many investors lost all of their investment, while the company’s reputation was now tarnished. A swift move was desperately needed.
• The debate became quagmired in endless procedural arguments, preventing any meaningful progress on the proposed legislation. Neither side was willing to meet in the middle, and the bill slowly died. This happened despite the fact that there was no reason for this to occur. Everyone was upset about the mess it was creating.
• Emotionally, she felt quagmired in grief and regret after her loss, unable to move past her pain and embrace the future. It was such a difficult task, but she couldn't find a way to move forward. It was a sad time and there was little to do but seek help and allow time to heal her.