such a dilemma

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "such a dilemma" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a situation in which someone is faced with two difficult choices and does not know which to choose. For example, "Leaving her beloved home of ten years was a difficult decision for Sarah; she faced such a dilemma."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Such a dilemma would have been unthinkable here a decade ago, when the Netherlands was as renowned for the dull, consensual predictability of its politics, as for its profusion of canals.

The New York Times

"Now if he wasn't so adorable do you think there'd be such a dilemma?

The New York Times

The matter of Antonio Fernandez presented such a dilemma for Judge Scheindlin.

The New Yorker

This is not the first time that such a dilemma has come up.

The New Yorker

For the conspiracy theorists, such a dilemma is sweet vindication indeed.

The Economist

"There is no way out of such a dilemma but to rebel and be broken, stigmatized and cured," she wrote.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

It's not such a big dilemma.

The Guardian - Sport

"I'm really perplexed as to how it's caused such a moral dilemma," Mulligan said.

The Guardian

Fortunately, the solution to such a painful dilemma is always close by.

The New York Times - Books

And he never — I mean, he was in such a terrible dilemma because when he escaped, he couldn't take his wife and his daughter.

The New York Times

I haven't been confronted with such a personal dilemma in a long, long time.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "such a dilemma" to introduce a complex problem that requires careful consideration and does not have an easy solution.

Common error

Avoid using "such a dilemma" for simple inconveniences or minor problems. This phrase is most effective when describing situations with significant consequences or difficult choices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "such a dilemma" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, introducing a problematic situation. It highlights the difficulty and complexity of the decision at hand. This aligns with Ludwig's examples, where the phrase is used to present challenges in various scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "such a dilemma" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys a challenging situation involving difficult choices. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, although best reserved for scenarios with significant consequences. While alternatives exist, understanding the specific nuances of each will help you choose the most appropriate phrase for your writing. Remember to use "such a dilemma" judiciously, focusing on situations with real weight and avoiding its overuse for minor inconveniences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult predicament

Emphasizes the challenging and potentially harmful nature of the situation.

tricky situation

Highlights the complexity and potential for error in the situation.

challenging problem

Focuses on the need to overcome an obstacle or find a solution.

vexing question

Implies a perplexing and possibly unanswerable nature of the situation.

thorny issue

Suggests a sensitive and potentially controversial aspect of the situation.

complex quandary

Underscores the intricate and confusing aspects of the situation.

moral conflict

Specifies that the dilemma involves conflicting ethical principles.

ethical problem

Problem related to moral principles and values.

precarious position

It focuses on the instability and potential danger of the situation.

awkward circumstances

Highlights the uncomfortable and embarrassing nature of the situation.

FAQs

How can I use "such a dilemma" in a sentence?

You can use "such a dilemma" to describe a situation where someone faces two or more difficult choices. For example, "Choosing between career advancement and family time presented "such a dilemma" for her."

What are some alternatives to "such a dilemma"?

Alternatives include "difficult predicament", "tricky situation", or "challenging problem". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuances you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "such a dilemma" in formal writing?

Yes, "such a dilemma" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure that the tone and context align with the overall formality of your piece.

What makes a situation qualify as "such a dilemma"?

A situation qualifies as "such a dilemma" when it involves a difficult choice between two or more options, each with significant drawbacks or undesirable consequences. It implies a weighty decision with no easy solution.