What is the meaning of 'deadlock' in negotiation?

In the context of negotiation, 'deadlock' refers to a situation where discussions come to a halt, and parties involved are unable to reach an agreement. This generally occurs when each side maintains opposing positions and is unwilling to compromise, leading to a standstill or stalemate. Recognizing a deadlock is crucial as it indicates that further negotiations may require different approaches or strategies to break the impasse and facilitate progress.

The other choices represent alternative scenarios in negotiation. A successful outcome signifies an agreement reached, which is the opposite of a deadlock. A situation where both parties agree completely reflects a harmonious resolution, while a negotiation tactic for leverage implies strategic maneuvering to gain an advantage, which also does not align with the concept of deadlock. Thus, the definition pertaining to a standstill is the most accurate and appropriate understanding of 'deadlock' in negotiation.