is a dilemma

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a dilemma" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation that presents a difficult choice or problem. Example: "Choosing between a stable job and pursuing my passion is a dilemma I face every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

HERE is a dilemma.

The Economist

"It is a dilemma.

The New York Times

Rather, it is a dilemma.

The Economist

This is a dilemma.

Harvard University

So there is a dilemma.

The Economist

However, there is a dilemma.

The Guardian

For South Korea, this is a dilemma.

The Guardian

"It is a dilemma," added Gen Cordingley.

The Guardian

Farage says there is a dilemma.

The Guardian

Earth's biodiversity is a dilemma wrapped in a paradox.

The Economist

It is a dilemma set to envelop Britain.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you use "is a dilemma", consider whether other words like "quandary" or "predicament" might be more precise or fitting for your specific context.

Common error

Avoid using "is a dilemma" for straightforward problems with clear solutions. A dilemma involves a genuine conflict between equally undesirable options, not just any difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a dilemma" functions as a predicate nominative, identifying or defining the subject of a sentence. It clarifies that the subject in question presents a difficult situation involving a choice between equally undesirable options, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

23%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is a dilemma" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a situation presenting difficult choices. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to scientific publications. When employing this phrase, it's essential to ensure that the context genuinely reflects conflicting and unfavorable options, distinguishing it from simpler problems. Considering synonyms like "is a quandary" or "is a predicament" can refine the expression further, adding precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a quandary

Uses "quandary" as a synonym for "dilemma", indicating a state of perplexity or uncertainty.

is a predicament

Replaces "dilemma" with "predicament", highlighting a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation.

presents a challenge

Replaces "dilemma" with "challenge", focusing on the difficulty rather than the conflicting choices.

is a difficult choice

Focuses on the aspect of choosing between options, emphasizing the difficulty in making a decision.

poses a problem

Substitutes "dilemma" with "problem", emphasizing the issue needing resolution.

is a tough call

An informal way to express that a decision is difficult to make.

creates a difficult situation

Rephrases the idea as a situation that is hard to manage or resolve.

is a complex issue

Highlights the complexity of the situation rather than the conflicting choices.

is a sticky situation

Informal phrase indicating a tricky or awkward situation.

represents a hurdle

Replaces "dilemma" with "hurdle", focusing on the obstacle that needs to be overcome.

FAQs

What does it mean to say something "is a dilemma"?

Saying something "is a dilemma" means it presents a difficult situation where one must choose between undesirable options. There isn't an easy or entirely satisfactory solution.

How do I use "is a dilemma" in a sentence?

Use "is a dilemma" to describe a situation with conflicting choices. For example, "Choosing between a pay cut and losing my job is a dilemma".

What can I say instead of "is a dilemma"?

You can use alternatives like "presents a challenge", "poses a problem", or "is a quandary" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "is a dilemma" and "is a problem"?

"Is a dilemma" implies a choice between two or more undesirable options, while "is a problem" simply indicates an issue needing resolution, without necessarily involving conflicting choices.