Definition
  1. A soft boggy area of land that gives way underfoot.

    synonyms:swampbog
  2. A complex or hazardous situation.

    synonyms:predicamentdilemma
Origin & Use

The word 'quagmire' originates from the early 17th century, derived from 'quake' (to shake) and 'mire' (a stretch of swampy ground).


The term is commonly used in everyday language and literature to describe both physical landscapes and metaphorical situations.


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While not used daily, 'quagmire' is frequently encountered in literature, news articles, and discussions about complex issues.

Examples

After hours of heavy rain, the hiking trail turned into a quagmire, making it nearly impossible to continue.

He found himself in a political quagmire, unable to navigate the conflicting interests of the parties involved.

The project became a quagmire of delays and miscommunication, leaving the team frustrated and confused.

More Info

The word 'quagmire' paints a vivid picture of both physical and metaphorical entanglement. Originally referring to a boggy ground, its usage has evolved to describe tricky situations in life and work. The combination of 'quake' and 'mire' reflects the instability and uncertainty inherent in both muddy terrain and complex dilemmas. So next time you're stuck in a tough spot, remember: you might just be in a quagmire!

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