dead end

dead end

Meaning:

• a street, corridor, road, pipe etc., that has no exit
• a position or job with no hope of progress; blind alley
• the situation or project with no prospects of improvements

Examples:

1. The interlocutors have reached a dead end in their efforts to discover a peaceful solution to the imbroglio.
2. In spite of the scientist's efforts the research leads to a dead end.
3. This narrow passage dead-ends at the park.
4. Burger shop is at the border of village on a dead end street.

Usage:

• a dead end
• hit a dead end
• lead to a dead end
• reach a dead end
• dead end job

Origin:
1885–90