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.
Those two issues were sticking points in an ultimately successful effort to approve construction of a men’s prison. Makenzie Huber, States Newsroom, 24 Mar. 2026 Money isn’t the only sticking point holding up a potential settlement with the Oakland diocese. Jakob Rodgers, Mercury News, 22 Mar. 2026 Meanwhile, more profound changes, such as acknowledging ethnic identity, indigenous status or territorial control, have been sticking points between Kurds and the central government. Lily Hindy, The Conversation, 12 Mar. 2026 Earlier this season, when the team spiraled out of rhythm, ball movement and shot distribution became sticking points offensively. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 9 Mar. 2026 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 6 Apr. 2026.

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