Stagnant Meaning in English
word
Definition
Not moving, flowing, or progressing; often used for water that does not flow or for situations where there is no development or change.
Usage & Nuances
Used for water with no circulation (can cause bad smells), or metaphorically for situations, economies, or careers that are not developing. Formal or semi-formal. Common collocations: 'stagnant water', 'stagnant economy', 'stagnant market'. Don't confuse with 'static' (simply not moving, but not about lack of progress).
Example Sentences
The pond was filled with stagnant water.
basic
A stagnant economy makes it hard to find new jobs.
basic
The air in the room felt stagnant and heavy.
basic
After years in the same job, he felt his career had become stagnant.
natural
The political debate remains stagnant—no new ideas are being discussed.
natural
If water stays stagnant, it can attract mosquitoes and smell bad.
natural