Meaning of Alphonse and Gaston | Babel Free

Definitions

A situation where two people or entities are waiting for each other to proceed, so that neither can take action.

attributive

Examples

“I have noticed myself that even for a single cyclist Palo Alto motorists are too well-wishing, creating the Alphonse and Gaston syndrome that neither will proceed at minor intersections.”

“For years, China and the United States have engaged in a dangerous Alphonse-and-Gaston routine, using each other's inaction to shirk their responsibility.”

“Collins hit a fly ball, and this time Cobb and Veach did the "Alphonse and Gaston" act, with Collins making it to third base.”

CEFR level