dilemma
noun C1
Plain meaning
a difficult choice between two bad or difficult options
Exam-register meaning
In academic or exam writing, this is used to discuss a difficult choice between two bad or difficult options in a more precise way.
In context
naturalThe article discussed dilemma during the meeting.
examThe passage suggests that face a dilemma can shape long-term policy or social outcomes.
Common collocations
face a dilemmamoral dilemmapolicy dilemma
Watch out
Do not use a weak verb before this word. Learn the whole word partnership, e.g., “face a dilemma”.