At a dead end Meaning in English
expression
ˈæt/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈdɛd/ /ˈɛnd
AT uh DED END
ˈæt/ /æɪ/ /dˈɛd/ /ˈɛnd
AT uh DED END
Definition
Used to describe being in a situation or place where no further progress is possible, either physically (like a street) or metaphorically (like a problem you can't solve).
Usage & Nuances
Often used for both real locations (streets) and life situations (problems, careers). Common collocations: 'feel', 'be' or 'reach' 'at a dead end'; often signals needing a new solution or change. Not usually used for temporary setbacks.
Spanish: en un callejón sin salida - en un punto muertoPortuguese (BR): em um beco sem saída - em um impassePortuguese (PT): num beco sem saída - num impasseChinese (Simplified): 走到死胡同 - 走入绝境Chinese (Traditional): 走到死衚衕 - 走入絕境Hindi: किसी गतिरोध परArabic: في طريق مسدودBengali: অচল অবস্থায় - চূড়ান্ত সংকটেRussian: тупикJapanese: 行き詰まっている - 行き止まりでVietnamese: bế tắcKorean: 막다른 길에 - 막다른 상태에Turkish: çıkmazda - çıkmaz sokaktaUrdu: بند گلی میں - رکا ہوا (مجازاً)Indonesian: buntu - jalan buntu
Example Sentences
We are at a dead end with this project.
basic
The road finished at a dead end.
basic
I feel at a dead end with my studies.
basic
After months of searching for a new job, I felt like I was at a dead end.
natural
Whenever we argue, our conversations seem to end at a dead end.
natural
I'm at a dead end here—do you have any ideas?
natural