Political Maneuvering Terms

noun a secondary staircase, usually located in the rear of a building

adjective relating to or characteristic of secret or underhanded activities

• The backstairs are reserved for staff use only.
• Let's take the backstairs to avoid the crowds.
• I heard a rumor that they were sneaking around the backstairs.
• She always takes the backstairs approach to solving problems.

noun a situation or problem that stops someone from achieving a goal or completing a task

verb to prevent or hinder the progress of someone or something

• The new regulations may stymie the company's ability to expand into new markets.
• The bad weather could stymie our plans for a picnic this weekend.
• The unexpected traffic jam really stymied our progress on the road trip.
• His fear of failure stymied his efforts to pursue his dreams.