sticking point

noun

1. a point, detail, or circumstance causing or likely to cause a stalemate or impasse:

   The bill would have gone through the Senate quickly but for one sticking point.

2. sticking place ( def 1 ).

sticking point

noun

1. a problem or point on which agreement cannot be reached, preventing progress from being made

Word History and Origins

Origin of sticking point¹

First recorded in 1820–30

Example Sentences

A sticking point remains, however, related to Israel’s demand to have the right to act inside Lebanon if there is any violation of a deal - something the Lebanese authorities consider unacceptable.

From BBC

But in a sign of some early progress, country representatives struck an agreement over a long-standing sticking point in international climate negotiations.

From BBC

One of these sticking points are the tough spot Local Councils have found themselves in.

From BBC

Healthcare benefits have been a major sticking point with the union, which claims the insurance CVS offers is inadequate and unaffordable for most employees, according to the union.

From Los Angeles Times

While the relationship between Beijing and Washington has improved in the past year, China's increasing assertiveness in the region remains a sticking point.

From BBC

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