sticking point

noun

: an item (as in negotiations) resulting or likely to result in an impasse

Examples of sticking point in a Sentence

The length of the contract has become a sticking point in the negotiations.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cash Flow Questions The company’s steep decline in cash flow over fiscal 2024 was another sticking point during earnings. Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025 This week’s late bargaining conversations paid off, as the two sides met halfway on the final sticking points, according to sources. Nell Salzman, Chicago Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025 The two sides were in negotiations for several days last week, which resulted in a compromise on a key sticking point of arbitration language. Caelyn Pender, Mercury News, 25 Mar. 2025 The other major sticking points are the amount of time between teacher evaluations and pay increases for veteran teachers. Nell Salzman, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sticking point

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sticking point was in 1732

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Cite this Entry

“Sticking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sticking%20point. Accessed 18 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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