bog down

British  

verb

1. to impede or be impeded physically or mentally

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bog down Idioms  

1. Become stuck, be unable to progress, as in Their research bogged down because they lacked the laboratory expertise. This expression transfers sinking into the mud of a swamp to being hampered or halted. [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

On the silver screen, it dazzles like few contemporary science fiction films do, opting for color over the pallid gray verisimilitude that often bogs down its peers.

From Salon

"The Arab Gulf nations that mediated previous rounds of Afghanistan-Pakistan talks are now bogged down by their own war. Other mediators, including China, have had limited success," he said.

From Barron's

It’s cute, fun to drive and made by a company whose leadership isn’t as bogged down with robots, robotaxis and other potential distractions.

From The Wall Street Journal

He has expressed disdain for previous U.S. wars abroad that have devolved into quagmires, promising that the country wouldn’t get bogged down in such conflicts under his leadership.

From The Wall Street Journal

For years, the U.S. has said it would shift its attention to Asia, but has remained bogged down elsewhere.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• halt
• hang up
• impede
• stall