dilemma
Pronunciation
Noun
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
A difficult situation in which someone must choose between two options that are both unwelcome in some way.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
predicament
quandary
Usage notes
Strictly, a "dilemma" involves exactly two options, though the word is often used loosely for any hard choice.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "She faced a real _____: take the job abroad or stay near her aging parents."
Answer: dilemma
In your own words, what does "dilemma" mean?
A difficult situation in which someone must choose between two options that are both unwelcome in some way.
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