Stalled

To stall means to come to a standstill; to stop or delay progress. It can refer to the physical halting of a vehicle or engine, or figuratively, to the suspension or obstruction of a process, project, or conversation. The term implies a temporary disruption, often with the potential for resumption or resolution. The duration of being stalled can vary, ranging from a brief pause to a prolonged impasse. Understanding why something is stalled is crucial to finding a way forward.

Stalled meaning with examples

• The old car stalled at a busy intersection, causing a traffic jam and a chorus of frustrated honking. The mechanic diagnosed a faulty fuel pump, a common issue. The driver had to wait on the side of the road to get it fixed. He wished he had been keeping up with his car maintenance.
• The negotiations between the two companies stalled over financial terms, leaving both sides uncertain about the project's future. It seems like neither side was willing to budge on their initial offers. Everyone involved realized that something had to give if the project would continue.
• Her presentation stalled when the projector malfunctioned, leaving her unable to show her slides. However, after a bit of fixing and troubleshooting, she quickly resumed her presentation with a witty remark and an engaging delivery. No one noticed the hiccup
• The government's legislative agenda stalled in Congress due to partisan disagreements, preventing the passage of critical bills. Compromise seemed impossible at this time. The voters wondered if any bills would ever be passed.