Basic Details
Word: Dilemma
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A situation where a person has to make a difficult choice between two options.
Synonyms: Problem, predicament, difficulty
Antonyms: Solution, resolution
Idioms and Phrases
- Between a rock and a hard place: Being in a difficult situation where one has to choose between two unpleasant alternatives. Example: "She was caught between a rock and a hard place, having to decide between moving or staying in her current job."
- Caught in a bind: Being stuck in a situation where there are no easy solutions. Example: "He was caught in a bind, unable to repay the loan or ask for an extension."
Usage Examples
Example 1: When it came to choosing a school, Sarah faced a dilemma between two great options.
Example 2: The committee found themselves in a dilemma about whether to approve the new policy or wait for more information.
Example 3: Deciding which movie to watch created quite the dilemma among the friends, as they all had different preferences.
Fun Fact
The word "dilemma" comes from the Greek word "dilemma," which means "double proposition." This reflects the nature of these situations where two options are presented, often with both having serious implications.
Famous Quote
"The greatest challenge in life is decision making; when faced with a dilemma, remember, the choices you make define who you are." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "dilemma" mean?
a) An easy choice
b) A difficult situation with two choices
c) A fun game
d) A type of food
Answer: b) A difficult situation with two choices
2. Which of these is a synonym of "dilemma"?
a) Solution
b) Problem
c) Answer
d) Straightforwardness
Answer: b) Problem
3. Which of these is an antonym of "dilemma"?
a) Challenge
b) Resolution
c) Difficulty
d) Predicament
Answer: b) Resolution
4. Which sentence uses "dilemma" correctly?
a) She solved the dilemma with an easy answer.
b) He faced a dilemma when choosing between the two job offers.
c) The dilemma was delicious to eat.
d) A dilemma is a type of fun activity.
Answer: b) He faced a dilemma when choosing between the two job offers.
5. Which idiom means being in a difficult situation?
a) Between a rock and a hard place
b) As easy as pie
c) Head in the clouds
d) In the bag
Answer: a) Between a rock and a hard place
