stand off

1. Stay at a distance, remain apart, as in Carol stood off from the others . [First half of 1600s] This usage gave rise to the adjective standoffish for “aloof” or “reserved in a haughty way.”

2. Put off, keep away, as in The police stood off the angry strikers . [Second half of 1800s]

Example Sentences

This could further frustrate the fragile peace process aimed at ending an increasingly tedious stand off.

From BBC

He denied there was a stand off between potential leadership candidates.

From BBC

One witness told PA news agency they heard a stand off between police and the suspect in an alley.

From BBC

"The game of rugby is meant to be hyperactive, physical and a game of chess which is incredible to watch. Instead you have a stand off."

From BBC

He warns it will be Prince Harry who will lose public support from this stand off and says he should "take a grip on his life" and not see himself as a "victim".

From BBC

Related Words

• halt
• hamper
• hinder
• interrupt
• postpone
• put off
• slow
• stay
• stop
• suspend