Dead in the water

Pro Tip 1/3

Impasse Context

Use when a situation cannot move forward because of an obstacle or disagreement.

The peace talks were dead in the water due to lack of compromise.

Pro Tip 2/3

Not Literally Stopped

It's a metaphor for lack of progress, not necessarily a physical halt.

The innovation team's idea was dead in the water after the negative feedback.

Pro Tip 3/3

Emphasizing Failure

Use it to stress the absence of progress, with a tone of finality.

The bill was dead in the water after the council's unanimous vote against it.