Come to a standstill Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To stop moving or progressing completely; when something is no longer active, operating, or developing.
Usage & Nuances
Often used for traffic, projects, negotiations, or business activities. Slightly formal or used in reporting. Collocates with 'traffic', 'economy', 'negotiations'. Do not confuse with 'pause' (temporary). 'Standstill' implies a complete and sometimes unexpected stop.
Example Sentences
Traffic came to a standstill after the accident.
basic
The project came to a standstill due to lack of funds.
basic
All work in the office came to a standstill during the blackout.
basic
Talks between the two countries came to a standstill last week.
natural
The city came to a standstill during the heavy snowstorm.
natural
My computer came to a standstill when I tried to open too many programs.
natural