Spanish Conversation · Level 50
75 words
Spanish word
dilema
Pronunciation
IPA/diˈlema/
Meaning
- masculine noundilemma
Example
Tengo un dilema: aceptar este trabajo o quedarme aquí.
I have a dilemma: whether to accept this job or stay here.
More examples
El dilema moral no me dejó dormir.
The moral dilemma kept me from sleeping.
Core concept
Forked road with signs showing different advantages and disadvantages.
Common phrases
tener un dilema
have a dilemma
resolver un dilema
resolve a dilemma
un dilema moral
moral dilemma
Similar words
problema: Requires practical steps to resolve a difficulty or troublesome situation.
decisión: Involves deciding what action to take after considering the options.
elección: Entails choosing a single option from a set of alternatives.
encrucijada: Presents a fork in the road where a clear direction is not yet determined.
Definition in Spanish
Estado mental de conflicto al tener que elegir entre opciones con ventajas y desventajas.
Word origin
The Spanish word derives from Greek δίλημμα (di- 'two' + lemma 'proposition') through medieval Latin and denotes a situation that forces a choice between mutually incompatible options.
Usage tips
- Dilema is grammatically masculine, so articles appear as el dilema and un dilema rather than feminine forms.