dilemma
UK: dɪˈlemə | US: dɪˈlemə
n. a situation requiring a choice between two equally undesirable alternatives
n. (logic) an argument forcing an opponent to choose between two unfavorable options
The word "dilemma" originates from 16th-century Latin dilemma, borrowed from Greek dílēmma, combining di- (two) and lēmma (premise). It originally described a rhetorical or logical argument presenting two equally unfavorable choices. Over time, its meaning broadened to describe any difficult choice between two bad options, retaining its core idea of duality.
She faced a dilemma: accept the job abroad or stay close to her family.
The ethical dilemma left him torn between honesty and loyalty.
Politicians often encounter dilemmas where neither decision pleases everyone.
The team’s dilemma was whether to invest in innovation or cut costs.
His moral dilemma became the central theme of the novel.