dilemma
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Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary
Line breaks: di|lemma
Pronunciation: /dɪˈlɛmə/
/dʌɪˈlɛmə/
Definition of dilemma in English:
noun
1A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially ones that are equally undesirable:
he wants to make money, but he also disapproves of it: Den’s dilemma in a nutshell
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1.1A difficult situation or problem:
the insoluble dilemma of adolescence
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1.2
Logic An argument forcing an opponent to choose either of two unfavourable alternatives.
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Usage
At its core, a
dilemma is a situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives. More informally, it can mean ‘a difficult situation or problem’ (as in
the insoluble dilemma of adolescence). Some traditionalists object to this weakened use, but it is recorded as early as the first part of the 17th century, and is now widespread and generally acceptable.Note that
dilemma is spelled with a double
m in the middle, not as
-mn-.
Origin
Early 16th century (denoting a form of argument involving a choice between equally unfavourable alternatives): via Latin from Greek
dilēmma, from
di- 'twice' +
lēmma 'premise'.
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Words that rhyme with dilemma
contemner, Emma, emmer, Jemma, lemma, maremma, stemma, tremor