Stand off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A situation in which two sides refuse to move or give in, often creating tension and no progress. It can refer to a physical confrontation or a disagreement where neither side will compromise.
Usage & Nuances
Usually a noun: 'a stand off'; sometimes written 'standoff' (especially in US English). Common in news, politics, and police situations. Not the same as 'stand up to,' which means to resist. Can mean both a tense waiting situation and a physical confrontation where neither party acts.
Example Sentences
There was a stand off between the two teams.
basic
The meeting ended in a stand off.
basic
Police had a stand off with protesters downtown.
basic
Negotiations turned into a long stand off with neither side willing to budge.
natural
There was an hour-long stand off outside the building before things calmed down.
natural
"It's just a stand off right now—nobody wants to make the first move," she said about the negotiations.
natural