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.
The rooftop scene shows how their characters meet and, according to Baldoni’s defamation suit against Lively, proved a major sticking point in their rapport. Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 28 Jan. 2025 Lagging Focus Misses Moments The Wide Evo's shoddy LCD is a major sticking point, but not the camera's worst offense. PCMAG, 23 Jan. 2025 Trump’s vow to end trans inclusion in women’s sports was a key sticking point in his campaign. Ryan Gaydos, Fox News, 20 Jan. 2025 The incoming president wants to expand the Abraham Accords with normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, but the future of Gaza has long been a key sticking point. Laura Kelly, The Hill, 16 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near sticking point

Cite this Entry

“Sticking point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sticking%20point. Accessed 6 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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