sticking point
Definition: A detail or issue that causes an impasse in negotiations or discussions, on which agreement could not be reached. 🛑
Origin: First used in the mid-1900s, often with reference to labor, diplomatic, or treaty negotiations.
Related Terms:
- Deal-breaker: A factor or issue that halts progress in negotiations.
- Bone of contention: Something that people argue about for a long time.
- Impassable: Incapable of being overcome.
Similar Terms and Expressions:
- Stumbling block: An obstacle to progress.
- Snag: A hidden or unexpected obstacle or drawback.
- Logjam: A situation that prevents a system or process from working smoothly.
Ponder This (Inspirational Thought 💡):
“Every negotiation has its sticking points. It’s how you navigate past them that defines your success.” – Neg O. Tiation
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “The meeting was going smoothly until they hit the mother of all sticking points—where to order lunch from!” 🍔🍕
- “Choosing the wallpaper might seem trivial, but in our house, it’s a sticking point worthy of a UN resolution.”
Engaging Literature, Music, and Movies:
Books:
- “Negotiating the Impossible: How to Break Deadlocks and Resolve Ugly Conflicts” by Deepak Malhotra
- “Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In” by Roger Fisher and William Ury
Songs:
- “No No No” by The Fours Seasons (because what’s negotiation without a few nos?)
Movies:
- “Moneyball” (for showing the value of analytics in overcoming negotiation stalemates)
- “The Negotiator” starring Samuel L. Jackson and Kevin Spacey
Proverbs:
- “There’s always some sticking point; we have to twist it to progress” – Fictional Proverb
- “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.”
### Which term means the same as "sticking point"?
- [ ] Tea break
- [x] Impasse
- [ ] Cloud-nine
- [ ] Green thumb
> **Explanation:** An impasse is a situation where no progress is possible, synonymous with a sticking point in negotiations.
### Which phrase refers to a significant obstacle?
- [ ] Easy peasy lemon squeezy
- [x] Bone of contention
- [ ] Flying high
- [ ] Smooth sailing
> **Explanation:** "Bone of contention" refers to a subject of dispute or disagreement, much like a sticking point.
### True or False: A "sticking point" can refer to a minor detail in a resolution.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** It generally refers to a major issue that prevents progress, not a minor detail.
### Matching: Connect the term with its meaning.
- Stumbling Block ⬜ A) A decisive point in the road
- Sticking Point ⬛ B) Issue where agreement can't be reached
- Logjam ⬖ C) A serious obstacle causing a halt
> **Answers:** Stumbling Block ⬜ A) A serious obstacle causing a halt, Sticking Point ⬛ B) Issue where agreement can't be reached, Logjam ⬖ C) A serious obstacle causing a halt.
Keep negotiating, overcoming hurdles, and using humor as your secret weapon. Until next time, may you break through your own sticking points with grace!
Neg O. Tiation
