PhrasesHub

At loggerheads

    Definitions

      • disagree or argue with someone
        To be in a state of strong disagreement or conflict with someone, often resulting in heated arguments or an inability to find common ground

      • at a standstill or impasse
        To be unable to reach a resolution or make progress on a particular issue or problem, often due to stubbornness or stubborn resistance from both parties involved

    Examples of At loggerheads

    • The two neighbors have been at loggerheads over the height of their fences.

      This idiom is used to describe a situation where two people strongly disagree or have opposing views on a particular issue. In this example, the neighbors are unable to come to a mutual decision regarding the height of their fences, leading to a disagreement or conflict. The phrase "at loggerheads" comes from the nautical term "loggerhead," which refers to the heavy wooden block attached to the end of a ship's anchor rope. In the past, when two ships' anchors became entangled, they would be said to be "at loggerheads."

    • The two political parties have been at loggerheads over the proposed budget.

      This example illustrates how the idiom can be used in a broader context. In this case, the two political parties are in disagreement over the proposed budget, with each party advocating for their own interests. This disagreement has led to a conflict or impasse, as they are unable to reach a compromise.

    • The two siblings have been at loggerheads ever since their father's death.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe a long-standing conflict or disagreement. In this case, the siblings have been in disagreement since their father's death, which may have triggered some underlying issues that have led to the conflict.

    • The two teams have been at loggerheads throughout the tournament.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used in a sporting context. In this case, the two teams have been in disagreement or conflict throughout the tournament, possibly due to intense competition or rivalry.

    • The two friends have been at loggerheads over the choice of restaurant.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used in a more lighthearted context. In this case, the two friends are unable to agree on which restaurant to go to, leading to a disagreement or conflict. This disagreement may seem trivial, but it highlights the importance of communication and compromise in any relationship.


    Conclusion

    At loggerheads is a versatile idiom that can be used in various contexts to convey a sense of disagreement, conflict, or impasse between individuals or groups. It is often used to describe a situation where two or more parties are at odds with each other and unable to find a resolution or compromise.

    In the first meaning, at loggerheads is used to describe a state of strong disagreement or argument between individuals. This can refer to a heated argument or a prolonged period of tension and hostility between two people. It can also be used to describe a disagreement or conflict between groups or organizations.

    In the second meaning, at loggerheads is used to describe a standstill or impasse in a situation where progress or resolution is needed. This could be in a personal relationship, a business negotiation, or a political dispute. The use of this idiom suggests that both parties involved are unwilling to budge or compromise, resulting in a stalemate.

    Origin of "At loggerheads"

    The origin of the idiom "at loggerheads" can be traced back to the medieval times in Europe. The word "loggerheads" refers to a type of iron instrument used for heating or melting tar, and it was often used by shipbuilders and sailors. When heated, the iron would become extremely hot and could easily cause serious burns if touched.

    This instrument was also used as a weapon during fights on board ships. The phrase "at loggerheads" was used to describe a heated conflict or disagreement, often leading to physical altercations. Over time, the phrase became associated with any kind of disagreement or conflict, and it is still commonly used in this sense today.

    Another possible origin of the idiom comes from the game of chess. In the game, the two most powerful pieces are the king and the queen, also known as the loggerheads. If these two pieces are in a stalemate and unable to capture each other, it can be seen as a state of impasse or disagreement. This could have also influenced the use of the phrase "at loggerheads" to describe a standstill or deadlock in a situation.