Dilemma Meaning
Dilemma Definition & Usage
A situation in which a person faces two equally undesirable or difficult choices, often leading to confusion or indecision.
Examples
- "I was caught in a dilemma when my boss asked me to choose between two equally good job offers."
- "She faced a moral dilemma about whether to tell her friend the truth, even though it might hurt their feelings."
- "John's dilemma was whether to stay with his family or accept the job offer in another city."
- "The company found itself in a dilemma about whether to lay off employees or take a financial hit to stay afloat."
- "The ethical dilemma of whether to intervene in the situation or respect the privacy of others left him uncertain."
A type of argument or problem in which a choice must be made between two mutually exclusive options, typically both following logically from the same premises.
Examples
- "The classic example of a dilemma in philosophy is the 'trolley problem,' where one must choose between saving five lives or sacrificing one."
- "In logic, a dilemma can be used to illustrate a situation where each option leads to a negative outcome."
- "The debate around environmental policy often presents a dilemma between economic growth and environmental sustainability."
- "Philosophers have debated the 'Euthyphro dilemma,' questioning whether something is good because God commands it or if God commands it because it is good."
- "The team was faced with a dilemma: whether to follow the company's short-term strategy for profit or pursue long-term innovation."
Cultural Context
The word 'dilemma' has its roots in ancient Greek, originating from the combination of 'di' meaning two, and 'lemma' meaning proposition or premise. Over time, it became a part of the broader English lexicon, commonly used to describe situations where one must choose between two undesirable options.
The Dilemma of the Crossroads
Story
The Dilemma of the Crossroads
As Emma stood at the crossroads, the golden rays of the morning sun cast long shadows across the path before her. Each road seemed to lead to a different life, and the decision weighed heavily on her heart. On one hand, the path to the left promised stability and a comfortable future, with a job offer from her long-time employer. But the path to the right beckoned with the excitement of pursuing her passion for traveling and writing, though it was uncertain and fraught with risk. The dilemma felt overwhelming—both paths had their advantages and drawbacks. If she chose the steady job, she would be safe, but perhaps forever wondering what could have been. If she chose the unknown, she would face challenges and instability, but also the thrill of living a dream she had nurtured for years. Emma hesitated, lost in thought. It wasn’t just about the career; it was about the life she envisioned for herself. Her mind raced, weighing the pros and cons of each, and she found herself stuck in the very dilemma that had paralyzed her for weeks. As the sun climbed higher, she realized that the decision was not just about what path she would take, but about embracing the unknown and taking ownership of her choices. In the end, Emma knew that no matter which path she chose, the journey would be hers to shape.
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