sticking point

noun

: an item (as in negotiations) resulting or likely to result in an impasse

Examples of sticking point in a Sentence

The length of the contract has become a sticking point in the negotiations.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The phrase, which has been used by pro-Palestinian activists, has become a sticking point between Mamdani, the Democratic nominee to lead the nation’s most populous city, and parts of its Jewish community. Andrew Stanton, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025 Israel’s military still occupies roughly 50% of Gaza, and the ceasefire agreement stipulates that its withdrawal is contingent on Hamas disarming — two sticking points in the ceasefire deal that have yet to be worked out. Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2025 His absence from the list of prisoners to be released remains a sticking point in negotiations. Nbc News, NBC news, 12 Oct. 2025 The issues below aren’t covered by the current cease-fire deal, and could be sticking points in future negotiations. Aaron Boxerman, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sticking point

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sticking point was in 1732

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Cite this Entry

“Sticking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sticking%20point. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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