Dilemma Definition, Meaning and Synonyms
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Updated on April 29, 2024
Discover the correct use of 'Dillema,' often mistakenly spelled as 'Dilemma,' and learn to distinguish between these frequently confused English words. Our guide offers insights and tips for accurate spelling and usage.
Dilemma Definitions
A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones.
The classic dilemma of being caught between a rock and a hard place.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 01, 2024
A problem offering two possibilities, neither of which is practically acceptable.
The environmentalist faced the dilemma of supporting nuclear power to reduce carbon emissions or opposing it because of waste concerns.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 01, 2024
A choice between two unsatisfactory alternatives in a given situation.
The refugee faced the dilemma of staying in a war-torn country or risking a dangerous journey for a better life.
Maverick
Feb 01, 2024
An argument presenting two or more equally conclusive alternatives against an opponent.
In debates, presenting a dilemma can corner opponents into making a difficult decision.
Maverick
Feb 01, 2024
A complex problem seeming to have no perfect solution.
The dilemma of balancing economic growth with environmental protection continues to challenge policymakers.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 01, 2024
A situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavorable or mutually exclusive.
Deciding whether to sell the family home was a painful dilemma.
Xavier
Feb 01, 2024
A state of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options.
Faced with the dilemma of lying or revealing a painful truth, he chose silence.
Muazma Batool
Feb 01, 2024
A moral problem with a choice between two or more principles, none of which is unambiguously acceptable or preferable.
The doctor's dilemma was whether to prioritize the health of the mother or the unborn child.
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Feb 01, 2024
A situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavorable or unsatisfactory.
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Jan 31, 2024
Usage Problem A problem that seems to defy a satisfactory solution.
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Jan 31, 2024
Dilemma Synonyms
Quandary
A state of perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation.
He found himself in a quandary over whether to accept the new job offer.
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Apr 29, 2024
Impasse
A situation in which no progress is possible, especially because of disagreement; a deadlock.
The negotiations reached an impasse.
Camila
Apr 29, 2024
Predicament
A difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation.
The unexpected exam left students in a serious predicament.
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Apr 29, 2024
Conundrum
A confusing and difficult problem or question.
The legal conundrum complicated the court proceedings.
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Apr 29, 2024
Plight
A dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation.
She sympathized with his plight and offered to help.
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Apr 29, 2024
Catch-22
A dilemma or difficult circumstance from which there is no escape because of mutually conflicting or dependent conditions.
It's a catch-22 situation; he can't get a job without experience, but he can't get experience without a job.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Paradox
A situation, person, or thing that combines contradictory features or qualities.
The paradox of the situation was that increasing the production speed reduced the overall efficiency.
Kalel
Apr 29, 2024
Crossroads
A point at which a crucial decision must be made that will have far-reaching consequences.
She stood at a crossroads, unsure of which path to pursue.
Smith
Apr 29, 2024
Stalemate
A position counting as a draw, in which a player is not in check but cannot move except into check.
The discussion ended in a stalemate, with neither side willing to compromise.
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Apr 29, 2024
Standoff
A deadlock between two equally matched opponents in a dispute or conflict.
The contract discussions resulted in a standoff.
Smith
Apr 29, 2024
Dilemma Idioms
Caught in a dilemma
Being stuck between two difficult choices.
She was caught in a dilemma between staying loyal to her friend or telling the truth.
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Mar 22, 2024
Between a rock and a hard place
In a very difficult situation where there are two equally undesirable decisions.
When choosing between his job and his health, he felt like he was between a rock and a hard place.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
A dilemma of choice
A situation where choosing from multiple options is difficult.
With so many good universities accepting her, she faced a dilemma of choice.
Muazma Batool
Mar 22, 2024
A moral dilemma
A situation where one must choose between right and wrong.
The whistleblower faced a moral dilemma in deciding whether to expose his company's illegal activities.
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Mar 22, 2024
To face a dilemma
To confront a difficult decision.
He faced a dilemma when he had to choose between two valuable but conflicting opportunities.
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Mar 22, 2024
A dilemma of conscience
A situation requiring a choice that tests one's ethical beliefs.
The soldier faced a dilemma of conscience when ordered to carry out a mission that conflicted with his moral values.
Smith
Mar 22, 2024
A financial dilemma
Having to make a tough decision related to finances.
The sudden expense put her in a financial dilemma about paying rent or fixing her car.
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Mar 22, 2024
A parenting dilemma
Challenges or difficult decisions parents face.
Deciding whether to homeschool or send their children to public school was their latest parenting dilemma.
Camila
Mar 22, 2024
The dilemma of plenty
The difficulty of making a decision when there are too many good options.
In the buffet of life, she encountered the dilemma of plenty, unable to decide her path.
Xavier
Mar 22, 2024
Solving a dilemma
Finding a resolution to a difficult decision.
Through careful consideration and advice, he finally solved his career dilemma.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
Dilemma Meaning in a Sentence
The government's dilemma was how to increase taxes without losing voter support.
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Mar 22, 2024
Faced with the dilemma of saving for retirement or paying off student loans, many choose the latter.
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Mar 22, 2024
Parents often face the dilemma of enforcing discipline while trying to maintain a close relationship with their children.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
The ethical dilemma of using animals in research continues to divide scientists.
Eleanor
Mar 22, 2024
Travelers frequently face the dilemma of choosing between cost and comfort.
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Mar 22, 2024
In the dilemma of choosing between immediate gratification or long-term benefits, patience is often rewarded.
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Mar 22, 2024
She was in a dilemma over whether to attend her friend's wedding or her cousin's graduation, which were scheduled for the same day.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
He found himself in a dilemma when offered two major projects that would both start at the same time.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
Choosing between job security and personal fulfillment is a common career dilemma.
Darian
Mar 22, 2024
The economic dilemma of inflation versus unemployment puzzles economists.
Muazma Batool
Mar 22, 2024
The team's dilemma was whether to play a defensive or aggressive strategy in the final match.
Smith
Mar 22, 2024
The dilemma between privacy and security is more relevant than ever in the digital age.
Camila
Mar 22, 2024
The climber faced the dilemma of continuing the ascent with bad weather approaching or turning back after months of preparation.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
Teachers face the dilemma of adapting lessons to varied learning styles without neglecting the curriculum.
Asaiah
Mar 22, 2024
The dilemma of investing in stocks or real estate is a major decision for many.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
How is 'dilemma' used in a sentence?
'Dilemma' is often used to describe a predicament in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones, e.g., "She faced the dilemma of obeying her boss or following her conscience."
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
What is the adjective form of 'dilemma'?
There isn't a widely accepted adjective form of 'dilemma,' but dilemmatic is sometimes used in formal contexts to describe something pertaining to or of the nature of a dilemma.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
Can 'dilemma' refer to more than two options?
Traditionally, 'dilemma' refers to a choice between two options, but in modern usage, it can be used to describe a situation with more than two choices, although some purists still prefer the word for situations involving only two options.
Muazma Batool
Mar 22, 2024
Is 'dilemma' used differently in various disciplines?
Yes, in philosophy and logic, 'dilemma' refers specifically to a form of argument presenting two alternatives, each leading to the same undesirable conclusion, highlighting a problem in reasoning or choice.
Camila
Mar 22, 2024
What is the definition of 'dilemma'?
A dilemma is a situation requiring a choice between two equally undesirable alternatives or presenting a difficult problem or argument.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
What is the origin of the word 'dilemma'?
The word 'dilemma' originates from the Greek word "dilēmma," which is derived from "di-" meaning "two" and "lēmma" meaning "premise or proposition."
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
What are synonyms for 'dilemma'?
Synonyms for 'dilemma' include predicament, quandary, plight, pickle, and conundrum.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 22, 2024
Can 'dilemma' be used in a positive context?
'Dilemma' usually connotes difficulty or distress, but it can appear in a positive context, especially when the options are both favorable, sometimes referred to as a "win-win situation."
Eleanor
Mar 22, 2024
What is the historical significance of the word 'dilemma'?
Historically, 'dilemma' was used in rhetoric and logic to describe a specific form of argument (dilemma argument) that forces an opponent to choose between two unfavorable alternatives.
Bronson
Mar 22, 2024
Are there common phrases or idioms that include the word 'dilemma'?
Yes, phrases like "on the horns of a dilemma" describe being caught between two equally undesirable options or courses of action.
Kalel
Mar 22, 2024
Can 'dilemma' be used metaphorically?
Yes, 'dilemma' can be used metaphorically to describe any situation that requires a tough choice, not just in literal or practical scenarios.
Bronson
Mar 22, 2024
How has the use of 'dilemma' evolved over time?
While 'dilemma' originally described a choice between two bad options in logic and rhetoric, its use has broadened over time to describe any situation where a difficult choice has to be made, not strictly limited to two options.
Asaiah
Mar 22, 2024
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Definitions Wiki, Muneeza's commitment to clarity and precision extends beyond the realm of definitions. She believes that a thorough understanding of words empowers individuals to communicate effectively and appreciate the beauty of language in all its forms.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a copywriter, Muazma weaves words into a tapestry of compelling stories that capture hearts and minds. With a keen eye for detail and a mastery of language, she crafts messages that move people to action and create lasting impact.
