dilemma
0 antonyms and opposites of dilemma, grouped by meaning.
Noun — A situation requiring a choice between two or more options, all of which are difficult or unwelcome.
How to use dilemma
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Late Latin dilemma, from Greek dilemma, "double proposition" — from di-, "two," plus lemma, "premise."
Full origin of dilemma →Frequently asked questions
What does “dilemma” mean?
The word “dilemma” means a situation requiring a choice between two or more options, all of which are difficult or unwelcome. In plain terms, a tough choice between two options that both have downsides.
How do you pronounce “dilemma”?
“Dilemma” is pronounced deye-LEH-muh (/daɪˈlɛmə/ in IPA).
How do you use “dilemma” in a sentence?
Here is “dilemma” used in a sentence: “She faced a dilemma: keep the secret or betray her friend’s trust.”
What is another word for “dilemma”?
Words with a similar meaning to “dilemma” include Catch-22, Hobson's choice, Morton's fork, no-win situation, quandary and Sophie's choice.
What part of speech is “dilemma”?
“Dilemma” is a noun.
Where does the word “dilemma” come from?
The word “dilemma” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin dilemma, from Greek dilemma, "double proposition" — from di-, "two," plus lemma, "premise.".
Is “dilemma” a common word?
“Dilemma” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a "dilemma" and a "problem"?
A "problem" is any difficulty needing a solution, but a "dilemma" specifically involves choosing between two or more options that are all difficult or unwelcome. A dilemma is a special kind of problem defined by the tough choice itself, not just by an obstacle to overcome.
Is it correct to say "on the horns of a dilemma"?
Yes, this is a traditional idiom meaning someone is caught between two equally difficult options, with "horns" representing the two unwelcome choices. It emphasizes just how uncomfortable and unavoidable the choice feels.
Can a "dilemma" have more than two options?
While the word's roots point to a choice between exactly two options, "dilemma" is now commonly used for any situation requiring a choice among several difficult or unwelcome alternatives. Strict usage guides still prefer reserving it for two-option situations, but broader use is widely accepted.