dilemma

[ dih-lem-uh ]

noun

1. a situation requiring a choice between equally undesirable alternatives.
2. any difficult or perplexing situation or problem.

   Synonyms: difficulty, question

3. Logic. a form of syllogism in which the major premise is formed of two or more hypothetical propositions and the minor premise is a disjunctive proposition, as “If A, then B; if C then D. Either A or C. Therefore, either B or D.”

dilemma

/ dɪˈlɛmə; ˌdɪlɪˈmætɪk; daɪ-; ˌdaɪlɪ- /

noun

1. a situation necessitating a choice between two equal, esp equally undesirable, alternatives
2. a problem that seems incapable of a solution
3. logic a form of argument one of whose premises is the conjunction of two conditional statements and the other of which affirms the disjunction of their antecedents, and whose conclusion is the disjunction of their consequents. Its form is if p then q and if r then s; either p or r so either q or s
4. on the horns of a dilemma
   1. faced with the choice between two equally unpalatable alternatives
   2. in an awkward situation

Usage

The use of dilemma to refer to a problem that seems incapable of a solution is considered by some people to be incorrect

Derived Forms

• dilemmatic, adjective

Other Words From

• dil·em·mat·ic [dil-, uh, -, mat, -ik], dilem·mati·cal di·lemmic adjective
• dilem·mati·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of dilemma¹

First recorded in 1515–25; from Late Latin, from Greek dílēmma, equivalent to di- “two, twice” ( di- ¹ ) + lêmma “an assumption, premise,” derivative of lambánein “to take”

Word History and Origins

Origin of dilemma¹

C16: via Latin from Greek, from di- ¹+ lēmma assumption, proposition, from lambanein to take, grasp

Idioms and Phrases

see horns of a dilemma .

Synonym Study

See predicament.

Example Sentences

In truth, conversations about the process are only a symbol of the actual dilemma – not just what to do, but how to pay.

From BBC

Millions of homeowners across the country could be facing the same dilemma.

From BBC

"Harbouring the subversive elements accused of undertaking activities detrimental to a friendly country posed both a diplomatic and humanitarian dilemma to Kenya," he added.

From BBC

The implications, choices, trade-offs and dilemmas for the UK provoked by what has just happened in America are legion.

From BBC

That's just a short pick of the very long list of dilemmas where money talks, and the chancellor’s been urged to listen.

From BBC

Related Words

• difficulty
• embarrassment
• impasse
• mess
• plight
• predicament
• problem
• puzzle
• quandary