Mexican standoff
WordNet
noun
(1) A situation in which no one can emerge as a clear winner
WiktionaryText
Etymology
The origin of this expression is uncertain, but it is likely that it arose in the American southwest during the late 1800s.
Noun
- A stalemate or a confrontation that neither side can win.
- Specifically, a confrontation between multiple armed parties, none of which trusts the others enough to risk laying down arms.
- A near-collision between two trains, an averted cornfield meet.
Usage notes
- The term risks offending Mexicans, even when no derogation is meant.