What does “Horns of a dilemma” mean?
"Horns of a dilemma" means being faced with a difficult choice between two equally undesirable options.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I'm stuck between the horns of a dilemma - should I stay in my current job or take a risk with a new opportunity?
Example
She found herself caught between the horns of a dilemma - should she tell the truth and risk hurting her friend, or keep quiet and betray her own values?
Example
The company was faced with the horns of a dilemma - should they lay off employees to cut costs or risk going bankrupt
Is “Horns of a dilemma” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Horns of a dilemma” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Horns of a dilemma” effectively in context?
You can use "Horns of a Dilemma" to describe a situation where you have to make a difficult choice between two equally undesirable options. It emphasizes the feeling of being trapped and having no ideal solution. For example, if a friend is torn between attending a family event or an important work meeting, you might say, 'She's caught between the horns of a dilemma - either way, she'll disappoint someone.'
- 1Personal Life
He found himself between the horns of a dilemma - should he prioritize his career or spend more time with his family?
- 2Relationships
She was faced with the horns of a dilemma - should she break up with her long-term partner or continue in a stagnant relationship?
- 3Ethical Decisions
The politician was caught between the horns of a dilemma - should he support a policy that benefits his party or one that aligns with his personal beliefs?
Similar phrases to “Horns of a dilemma”:
Catch-22
A situation where you're trapped by contradictory rules or conditions
Example
He was in a catch-22 - he needed experience to get a job, but he couldn't get experience without a job.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Horns of a dilemma” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Horns of a Dilemma" is unknown.
Is “Horns of a dilemma” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Horns of a Dilemma" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the difficulty of making a choice when both options have negative consequences.
What tone does “Horns of a dilemma” have?
"Horns of a Dilemma" conveys a tone of frustration and helplessness. It implies a sense of being trapped and having no easy way out of a difficult situation.
Can “Horns of a dilemma” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Horns of a Dilemma" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common experience of facing difficult choices. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She found herself caught between the horns of a dilemma.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm stuck between the "horns of a dilemma"!' to express frustration.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
- clear choice
- easy decision
- simple solution
- straightforward option
