Definition

A situation where progress is blocked or delayed, often due to a large number of things being stuck together, like logs in a river.

Example

The negotiations reached a logjam, preventing any agreement from being made.

Conversation

Have you heard about the logjam in the negotiations for the new project?

Yeah, I read about it. It's really causing a delay, isn't it?

Exactly! It feels like they can't make any progress at all.

I hope they find a way to resolve the logjam soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Logjam → The word is a compound of "log" (from Old English "logg", meaning a piece of wood) and "jam" (from Middle English "jamme", meaning to press or squeeze). A logjam refers to a situation where logs are stuck together, preventing movement, and metaphorically describes any situation where progress is blocked.

Memory Tip

Picture logs ('log') that are 'pressed together' ('jam') and stuck, which helps you remember that a logjam is a blockage that prevents progress.

Visually Confused Words