awkward choice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "awkward choice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision or selection that feels uncomfortable or inappropriate in a given context. Example: "Her decision to wear a bright pink dress to a formal black-tie event was an awkward choice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

So I faced this awkward choice.

The New York Times - Magazine

But that might force America into an awkward choice.

The Economist

Mr Kline's party now faces an awkward choice.

The Economist

It might be an "awkward" choice but it will enhance Mr. Obama's global clout.

The New York Times

In each case, the democrats who came to power faced an awkward choice between justice and stability.

The Economist

The party now faces the politically awkward choice of whether to reject a recount that it had publicly sought.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

There will be friction and awkward choices.

The Guardian - Sport

This leaves the center-left with awkward choices.

The New York Times

But the threat of fines is already posing politically awkward choices in Germany.

The Economist

As the euro area becomes a more integrated federal bloc, E.U. members outside the single currency zone face awkward choices.

The New York Times

Plugging those holes will be costly: Mr Putin must make awkward choices over what interests to offend.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "awkward choice" when you want to convey that a decision is not only difficult but also creates a sense of unease or discomfort. For example, choosing between two equally qualified candidates when one is a close friend could be described as an "awkward choice".

Common error

Avoid using "awkward choice" to describe a selection that is simply unconventional or unexpected but ultimately positive. "Awkward" implies a level of discomfort or difficulty, so ensure the context reflects this.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "awkward choice" is to act as a noun phrase where the adjective "awkward" modifies the noun "choice". Ludwig AI indicates it's a valid and usable construction. As evidenced by the examples, it often serves as the subject or object of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "awkward choice" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a decision that is difficult and uncomfortable. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. As a common phrase found predominantly in news and media, it effectively conveys a sense of unease or potential negative consequences associated with the choice being made. Understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, as well as considering alternative expressions such as "delicate decision" or "uncomfortable selection", can enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncomfortable decision

Highlights the feeling of unease associated with the choice.

tough call

An informal way of expressing that a decision is hard to make.

delicate decision

Focuses on the sensitivity and potential consequences of the decision.

unpleasant dilemma

Focuses on the disagreeableness and difficulty in choosing between options.

challenging selection

Emphasizes the difficulty in making the selection.

tricky situation

Emphasizes the complexity and potential pitfalls of the situation.

unenviable position

Shifts the focus to the undesirable situation of having to make the choice.

problematic alternative

Highlights that the option available are not ideal

difficult predicament

Highlights the problematic nature of the situation leading to the choice.

thorny issue

Highlights the complexity and difficulty of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "awkward choice" in a sentence?

You can use "awkward choice" to describe a decision that is difficult and uncomfortable. For example: "The company's decision to lay off employees during the holiday season was an awkward choice."

What is another way to say "awkward choice"?

Alternatives to "awkward choice" include "difficult decision", "uncomfortable choice", or "delicate decision", depending on the specific context.

Is "awkward choice" grammatically correct?

Yes, "awkward choice" is grammatically correct. "Awkward" is an adjective modifying the noun "choice".

What makes a choice "awkward"?

A choice is considered "awkward" when it involves an uncomfortable situation, conflicting priorities, or potential for embarrassment or negative consequences.