stalemate – n. a contest, dispute, competition, etc., in which neither side can gain an advantage or win
ultimate – adj. happening or coming at the end of a process, series of events, etc.
thrust – n. the main point or meaning of something
assess – v. to make a judgment about (something)
deteriorate – v. to become worse as time passes
modest – adj. not very large in size or amount
accomplishment – n. something done, achieved or accomplished successfully
reinforce – v. to encourage or give support to (an idea, behavior, feeling, etc.)