dilemma
Meaning
A dilemma is a complex situation in which a choice must be made between two or more equally undesirable or mutually exclusive alternatives, often characterized by significant moral or ethical implications that complicate the decision-making process.
💡 While the term "dilemma" is often used colloquially to refer to any difficult choice, it specifically denotes a scenario with competing options that pose substantial consequences, making it distinct from simpler decision-making challenges.
Example Sentences
Word in Context
When
Lina
glances
at
the
clock
and
opens
the
email
from
her
manager
,
she
faces
a
professional
dilemma
that
leaves
no
easy
option
.
If
she
stays
late
to
finalize
the
report
,
she
will
help
the
team
meet
a
tight
deadline
but
miss
her
son's
school
recital
;
if
she
leaves
on
time
,
she
may
feel
that
she
has
neglected
her
duty
at
work
.
She
weighs
the
consequences
calmly
,
considering
how
a
short
compromise
-
delegating
some
tasks
and
arriving
briefly
at
the
recital
-
might
alleviate
the
tension
without
betraying
either
responsibility
.
Although
neither
choice
is
perfect
,
she
reminds
herself
that
clear
communication
and
a
pragmatic
plan
could
reduce
the
potential
fallout
.
After
a
minute
of
reflection
she
drafts
a
concise
message
to
her
manager
proposing
a
revised
schedule
and
then
texts
her
son's
teacher
to
explain
she
will
be
a
little
late
.
Common Phrases
ethical dilemma
moral dilemma
classic dilemma
Synonyms
Related Words
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