standoff

Standoff is a term used to describe a situation in which opposing sides refuse to yield, producing a deadlock or stalemate. It is used in political, military, business, and social contexts to denote a tense confrontation where neither side secures a decisive advantage without concession or external intervention. The word stems from the idea of keeping adversaries at a distance; outcomes range from negotiated settlements to ongoing impasse.

In law enforcement or security settings, a standoff refers to a prolonged confrontation between authorities and armed individuals or groups, often involving hostages or negotiations. Resolution typically relies on de-escalation and negotiation, with safety of civilians prioritized; use of force is considered only when necessary and proportionate.

Standoff distance is a related concept in safety and explosive, military, and industrial contexts. It denotes the minimum clearance between a hazard and a person, asset, or target. Standards and risk assessments determine the appropriate standoff distance to minimize injury, exposure, or collateral damage.

In mechanical and electronics assembly, a standoff is a spacer that provides separation between components. Standoffs, often threaded cylinders, create mounting support, electrical isolation, and airflow, and come in various sizes and materials to suit different chassis, boards, or enclosures.