stand-off

listen to the pronunciation of stand-off
English - English
A stand-off is a situation in which neither of two opposing groups or forces will make a move until the other one does something, so nothing can happen until one of them gives way. The State Department was warning that this could lead to another diplomatic stand-off. see also Mexican stand-off
To prevent any would-be attacker from coming close by adopting an offensive posture

We took hold of anything that might serve as a weapon to stand off the menacing group of young men.

To stand some distance apart form something or someone

He stood off from the fire, for fear of getting scorched.

standoff
Alternative spelling of stand off
standoff
A device which maintains a fixed distance between two objects, especially between a surface and a sign or electrical wiring
standoff
A deadlocked confrontation between antagonists

I don't want to get involved in the standoff between those two.

Mexican stand-off
A Mexican stand-off is a situation in which neither of the people or groups in a conflict or dispute can win and neither wants to give in first
standoff
To become involved in a social confrontation, or conflict of interests. (To cause a stand-off is to undertake the action itself.)
standoff
the act of repulsing or repelling an attack; a successful defensive stand
standoff
{i} tie, draw (as in a contest); something which acts as a counterbalance; act of remaining aloof, act of keeping one's distance; insulator (Electricity)
standoff
the finish of a contest in which the score is tied and the winner is undecided; "the game ended in a draw"; "their record was 3 wins, 6 losses and a tie"
standoff
To operate some distance from the object of the operation
standoff
a situation in which neither side in a fight or battle can gain an advantage
standoff
A device which maintains a fixed distance between two objects, especially between a surface and electrical wiring
standoff
A social confrontation, or conflict between persons (see above verb)
stand-off
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