Another Word For Dilemma

Meaning

A dilemma is a situation in which a person has to make a difficult choice between two or more alternatives, each of which has potentially negative consequences. It often involves a moral or ethical decision where each option presents its own challenges, leading to a sense of confusion or conflict.

Synonyms

• Quandary
• Predicament
• Conundrum
• Plight
• Impasse

Antonyms

• Solution
• Resolution
• Certainty
• Ease
• Simplicity

Etymology

The word "dilemma" comes from the Greek word "dilemmā," which is derived from "di-" meaning "two" and "lemma," meaning "premise" or "assumption." This reflects the idea of being caught between two propositions or choices.

Examples

1. She faced a dilemma when deciding whether to accept the job offer in a distant city or stay close to her family.
2. The ethical dilemma of lying to protect someone's feelings left him feeling conflicted.
3. Choosing between a career in medicine or pursuing his passion for art created a significant dilemma for him.
4. The environmental dilemma of industrial growth versus conservation has become increasingly challenging for policymakers.