dilemma
dih-LEM-uh
/dɪˈlɛmə/
A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones.
In ethics, a dilemma isn't just a 'hard choice'; it's a situation where two moral principles conflict (e.g., telling the truth vs. protecting a friend).
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'dilemma,' literally meaning 'double proposition.' In logic, it was an argument that forced an opponent to choose between two equally unpleasant alternatives.
Word relationships
- quandary: A quandary is a state of perplexity or uncertainty; a dilemma is the specific choice between two options.
- solution: A way of solving a problem or dealing with a difficult situation.
Commonly confused with
- problem: A problem can have a right answer; a dilemma often involves choosing between two 'wrongs' or two competing 'rights'.
Collocations
- ethical dilemma
- moral dilemma
- face a dilemma
Idioms & expressions
- on the horns of a dilemma
Example sentences
- "The medical team faced a dilemma: respect the patient's refusal of blood or save his life against his wishes." Ethical conflict in a hospital.
- "The prisoner's dilemma is a standard example of a game analyzed in game theory that shows why two completely rational individuals might not cooperate." A classic philosophical problem.
Memory hook
Di (Two) + Lemma (Lemons). You have two sour lemons and have to pick one. Two tough choices.
When not to use
Don't use it for a simple problem with one obvious solution. It requires a conflict between choices.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'on the horns of a dilemma' comes from the idea of an attacking bull—either horn will gore you.
Also appears in
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