difficult dilemma

USAGE SUMMARY

"difficult dilemma" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you need to refer to a situation that presents two or more options that are hard to choose between and that may have negative consequences no matter which option is chosen. For example, "Facing a difficult dilemma, the company had to decide whether to cut jobs or accept a lower profit margin."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a really difficult dilemma.

Independent

"We faced a difficult dilemma.

The New York Times

"This is a very difficult dilemma".

The New York Times - Health

The Chinese government faces a difficult dilemma.

The New York Times

"It was a very difficult dilemma".

The Guardian

Then, the NHS will face a difficult dilemma.

Independent

But a verdict of insanity presents the Norwegian justice system with an equally difficult dilemma.

Independent

To resolve the difficult dilemma a new algorithm is developed to build a bridge between scattered points and adaptive slicing.

Precision Engineering

The designer of these systems runs up against the difficult dilemma of selecting an adequate components combination.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

"It's a very difficult dilemma for us, because we are fully aware that Zaman was silent during [Ergenekon].

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"All this sets the stage for a difficult dilemma for the Fed," Bernard Baumohl, managing director of the Economic Outlook Group, a forecasting firm in Princeton, N.J., wrote in a report to clients.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "difficult dilemma", ensure the context clearly outlines the conflicting choices and the potential negative outcomes associated with each option. This provides clarity and emphasizes the complexity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "difficult dilemma" when the situation presents a simple choice or lacks significant consequences. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "difficult dilemma" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "difficult" modifies the noun "dilemma". As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is used to describe a problematic situation involving a choice between equally undesirable options.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "difficult dilemma" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a challenging situation with no easy solution. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, it's important to clearly articulate the conflicting options to emphasize the complexity of the situation and avoid overstating the difficulty when simpler choices are involved. Alternatives like "complex predicament" or "tough choice" can add nuance, but "difficult dilemma" remains a versatile choice for conveying a sense of complex decision-making.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complex predicament

Emphasizes the intricate and confusing nature of the situation.

tough choice

Focuses on the challenging aspect of making a decision.

serious quandary

Highlights the perplexing and uncertain nature of the problem.

challenging decision

Underscores the demanding nature of the decision-making process.

problematic situation

Broadly describes a difficult or unfavorable circumstance.

thorny issue

Implies a sensitive and potentially controversial problem.

delicate matter

Suggests the need for careful and tactful handling.

awkward situation

Highlights the uncomfortable or embarrassing nature of the circumstances.

sticky wicket

Indicates a tricky and potentially dangerous situation (primarily British English).

vexing question

Focuses on the frustrating and puzzling aspect of the problem.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "difficult dilemma" in a sentence?

Use "difficult dilemma" to describe situations with two or more challenging options, each with potentially negative consequences. For example, "The company faced a "difficult dilemma": cut jobs or risk bankruptcy".

What are some alternatives to "difficult dilemma"?

Consider alternatives like "complex predicament", "tough choice", or "serious quandary" to add variety to your writing.

Is it redundant to say "very difficult dilemma"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very difficult dilemma" can be redundant. The word "dilemma" already implies difficulty, so using ""difficult dilemma"" alone is often sufficient.

What is the difference between a "difficult dilemma" and a "moral dilemma"?

A ""difficult dilemma"" involves any challenging choice, while a "moral dilemma" specifically involves a conflict between ethical principles or values.