Meaning of Word
Dilemma refers to a situation in which a person has to choose between two or more options, all of which may have undesirable or challenging consequences.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- A difficult situation or problem requiring a choice between equally undesirable alternatives.
- A situation where a decision must be made between two or more conflicting or equally balanced options.
- A predicament where no clear or satisfactory solution is apparent.
History and Origin
The word dilemma originates from the Greek dilemma, where di- means “two” and lemma means “premise” or “proposition.” It was used in rhetoric to describe an argument forcing a choice between two unfavorable conclusions. The term entered English in the early 16th century, retaining its meaning of a challenging choice.
Detailed Explanation
A dilemma involves making a difficult decision between options that often have both advantages and drawbacks or are equally undesirable. Dilemmas are common in ethical, personal, and professional contexts, such as moral dilemmas, which challenge one’s principles, or practical dilemmas, where competing interests must be balanced. Unlike simple choices, a dilemma often lacks a clear or easy solution, making it a source of stress or indecision.
Example Sentences
- She faced a dilemma over whether to stay in her stable job or pursue her passion.
- The ethical dilemma left the team debating for hours.
- The movie’s protagonist is caught in a dilemma between love and duty.
- Choosing between two equally appealing colleges is a common dilemma for students.
- He found himself in a dilemma about whether to confront his friend or let it go.
- The company faced a financial dilemma that required tough decisions.
- The environmental dilemma of balancing development with conservation is ongoing.
- The dilemma of whether to save money or invest in education puzzled the family.
- They were in a dilemma about whether to cancel the event due to bad weather.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Predicament: A difficult or unpleasant situation.
- Quandary: A state of uncertainty or confusion over what to do.
- Problem: A situation that needs solving but poses challenges.
- Catch-22: A paradoxical situation with no escape due to conflicting conditions.
- Conundrum: A confusing or difficult problem or question.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Conflict: A clash of opposing needs, interests, or principles.
- Choice: The act of selecting between two or more alternatives.
- Impasse: A situation where no progress can be made due to a dilemma.
- Paradox: A seemingly contradictory situation that may nonetheless be true.
- Trade-off: A balance between two conflicting features or outcomes.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Moral dilemma: A situation requiring a choice between conflicting ethical principles.
- Double bind: A psychological dilemma where all options have negative outcomes.
- Hobson’s choice: A situation with only one available option that feels like no choice.
- Sophie’s choice: A reference to a heartbreaking dilemma from literature.
- Pro and con debate: A method to analyze dilemmas by weighing positives and negatives.
Antonyms
- Solution: A resolution to a problem or dilemma.
- Certainty: A clear and definite choice.
- Clarity: The absence of confusion or ambiguity.
- Decision: A clear and resolute choice between options.
- Resolution: A conclusion or answer to a conflicting situation.