deter -
To prevent (or aim to prevent) the occurrence of something through fear of consequences.
A barking dog can deter burglars from breaking into a home.
adjective
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abrupt -
Sudden and unexpected, often in an unpleasant way
The company was not succeeding, mostly because the CEO kept abruptly changing the goals of where the company should be heading, and the methods for achieving those goals.
verb
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sidestep -
To deliberately avoid or divert attention from a certain subject, often to avoid dealing with it.
During the press conference, he sidestepped questions that he didn't want to focus on or deal with.
noun
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deadlock -
A situation where opposing sides can't make progress to resolve their differences
Congress couldn't pass any new bills because the political and emotional deadlock between the Republicans and Democrats on almost every issue.
noun
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impediment -
Something that obstructs or slows down progress; a hindrance or obstacle.
His lack of funding was a major impediment to starting his business.
verb
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kibosh -
When an idea or plan is spoiled or stopped, often due to unforseen circumstances.
Keith was going to go to the museum, but his sudden illness put the kibosh on his plans.
verb
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shackle -
Something that prevents freedom of movement, literally or figuratively
Because John had so much debt, he felt he couldn't consider switching careers, and therefore felt shackled to a job that he hated.
verb
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impede -
To create obstacles or difficulties that hinder an action or process.
His lack of experience may impede his chances of getting the job.
noun
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hiatus -
A temporary gap, pause, break, or absence when something stops happening.
His vacation in Alaska with his wife was a wonderful and exciting hiatus between their very stressful jobs.
adjective
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stuck -
Unable to move.
Marvin felt stuck in his low paying job, but he had a bit of hope that someday things would open up and change for the better.
