What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
zugzwang
Example
The chess player was in zugzwang and had to make a move that would ultimately lead to their defeat. [zugzwang: noun]
Example
I felt like I was in zugzwang when I had to choose between two bad options. [zugzwang: metaphorical usage]
quandary
Example
I'm in a quandary about whether to accept the job offer or not. [quandary: noun]
Example
She was in a quandary about which dress to wear to the party. [quandary: metaphorical usage]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Quandary is more commonly used than zugzwang in everyday language. Quandary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while zugzwang is a more technical term that is less commonly used outside of the context of chess.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between zugzwang and quandary?
Quandary is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while zugzwang is more technical and less commonly used in everyday language, making it more formal in tone.
