Translation guide
A situation where two or more parties cannot proceed because each is waiting for the other to act, or because of an irresolvable conflict. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various nouns and set phrases depending on the context, such as negotiations, computing, or physical jams.
Describing a situation where opposing sides cannot reach an agreement or make progress.
A formal term for a deadlocked or stalemated state, often used in politics, business, or military contexts.
交渉は膠着状態に陥っている。
The negotiations have fallen into a deadlock.
A common word for a dead end or impasse, used in various situations including discussions, projects, and relationships.
話し合いが行き詰まりを見せている。
The discussion is showing signs of deadlock.
A loanword from English, used in similar contexts but often with a slightly more technical or modern feel, especially in IT or business.
プロジェクトはデッドロックに陥った。
The project reached a deadlock.
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'unable to move forward or backward', used for situations where no progress can be made.
交渉はにっちもさっちもいかない状態だ。
The negotiations are completely deadlocked.
A specific technical term in computer science where two or more processes are each waiting for resources held by the other.
The standard technical term in computing, directly borrowed from English.
このプログラムはデッドロックを起こす可能性がある。
This program may cause a deadlock.
A phrase meaning 'deadlock state', often used in technical documentation.
システムがデッドロック状態に陥った。
The system fell into a deadlock state.
A situation where movement is physically impossible because things are stuck or blocked.
Describes being stranded or stuck and unable to move, often used for vehicles in snow or traffic.
大雪で車が立ち往生した。
Cars were deadlocked due to heavy snow.
Specifically refers to traffic congestion or a traffic jam, but can metaphorically imply a deadlock in flow.
膠着状態 is more formal and often used in written analysis or news reports, while 行き詰まり is more versatile and can be used in everyday conversation. デッドロック is a loanword that carries a modern, sometimes technical nuance.
会議は膠着状態に陥った。
The meeting fell into a deadlock. (formal)
話が行き詰まってしまった。
The conversation reached a deadlock. (casual)
Do not translate 'deadlock' literally as 死の錠 (しのじょう) or similar. Use the appropriate Japanese term based on context.
道路が渋滞で完全に動かない。
The road is completely deadlocked with traffic.