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Dilema vs. Dilemma: Mastering the Correct Spelling

Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on March 12, 2024
The incorrect spelling "Dilema" is often confused with the correct spelling "Dilemma," which refers to a difficult decision or choice involving two or more alternatives.

Which is correct: Dilema or Dilemma

How to spell Dilemma?

Dilema is Incorrect

Dilemma is Correct

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Key Differences

Think of "Dilemma" as having two "m's" for the two choices you face.
Associate the word with the phrase "double trouble" to remember that it has double "m's."
Dilemma ends with "-emma," like the name Emma, who had to make a difficult decision in Jane Austen's novel.
Use a rhyme: "Two 'm's in the middle make a dilemma less brittle."
The word "lemon" has one 'm', but "dilemma" is more complex, so it gets two.
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Correct usage of Dilemma

The company is in a financial dilema due to decreasing sales.
The company is in a financial dilemma due to decreasing sales.
This situation presents a dilema: should we prioritize speed or quality?
This situation presents a dilemma: should we prioritize speed or quality?
Solving this dilema requires careful thought and consideration.
Solving this dilemma requires careful thought and consideration.
He found himself in a serious dilema about which job offer to accept.
He found himself in a serious dilemma about which job offer to accept.
She faced a moral dilema when deciding whether to tell the truth.
She faced a moral dilemma when deciding whether to tell the truth.

Dilemma Definitions

A dilemma is a situation where each choice leads to unfavorable consequences.
It was a dilemma whether to stay in the storm or take shelter in a risky area.
A dilemma is a complex problem with no easy solution.
Solving climate change is a global dilemma.
A dilemma is a predicament that challenges ethical or moral judgment.
She faced a moral dilemma when asked to lie for a friend.
A situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavorable or unsatisfactory.
Usage Problem A problem that seems to defy a satisfactory solution.
(Logic) An argument that presents two alternatives, each of which has the same consequence.
A circumstance in which a choice must be made between two or more alternatives that seem equally undesirable.
A difficult circumstance or problem.
(logic) A type of syllogism of the form "if A is true then B is true; if C is true then D is true; either A or C is true; therefore either B or D is true".
(rhetoric) Offering to an opponent a choice between two (equally unfavorable) alternatives.
An argument which presents an antagonist with two or more alternatives, but is equally conclusive against him, whichever alternative he chooses.
A state of things in which evils or obstacles present themselves on every side, and it is difficult to determine what course to pursue; a vexatious alternative or predicament; a difficult choice or position.
A strong dilemma in a desperate case!To act with infamy, or quit the place.
State of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options
A dilemma is a situation requiring a difficult choice between two or more alternatives.
He faced the dilemma of choosing between his job and his family.
A dilemma is a puzzling scenario that prompts debate or analysis.
The prisoner's dilemma is a classic example in game theory.

Dilemma Sentences

The classic dilemma of choosing between right and wrong is a common theme in literature.
Every character in the novel faces their own personal dilemma.
He was in a dilemma over whether to go to college or start working.
The environmental dilemma we face today is whether to prioritize economic growth or conservation.
The dilemma of balancing work and personal life is increasingly common.
The prisoner's dilemma is a well-known concept in game theory.
Facing a dilemma, she had to decide between her career and her family.
She encountered a dilemma when her two best friends argued and expected her to choose sides.
A common travel dilemma is deciding between a relaxing beach holiday or an adventurous exploration.
Deciding to use limited resources for healthcare or education is a government's dilemma.
Teenagers often face the dilemma of fitting in with peers while staying true to themselves.
Voters often find themselves in a dilemma when choosing between candidates.
The ethical dilemma posed by self-driving cars is how to program them to make life-or-death decisions.
The moral dilemma in whistleblowing is risking one's career to expose wrongdoing.
He faced a dilemma in the game: to attack and risk losing or defend and hope for a better opportunity.
The dieting dilemma: eating foods you love that aren't necessarily healthy, or foods that are good for you but less satisfying.
Legal dilemmas often arise in situations where laws conflict with ethical considerations.
Students face the dilemma of choosing a major that they are passionate about versus one that is more likely to lead to a stable career.
Businesses face the dilemma of investing in innovation or sticking with proven methods.
The financial dilemma of saving for the future while enjoying the present is a common struggle.
The technological dilemma involves choosing between convenience and privacy.
Choosing between immediate pleasure and long-term benefit is a human dilemma.
Climate change presents a global dilemma that requires cooperation from all countries.
The dilemma of digital life is managing screen time without missing out on real-world experiences.
In romance, the dilemma often involves choosing between passion and practicality.

FAQs

What is the pronunciation of Dilemma?

It's pronounced as "dih-LEM-uh."

Why is it called Dilemma?

It's called "dilemma" from the Greek "di-" meaning "two" and "lemma" meaning "premise or assumption," describing a choice between two options.

Which vowel is used before Dilemma?

Typically, "a" as in "a dilemma."

What is the singular form of Dilemma?

The singular form is "dilemma."

What is the root word of Dilemma?

The root words are Greek: "di-" meaning "two" and "lemma" meaning "premise."

Which article is used with Dilemma?

Typically "a" or "the" depending on context: "a dilemma," "the dilemma."

Is Dilemma an abstract noun?

Yes, it is an abstract noun.

What is the verb form of Dilemma?

There is no standard verb form for "dilemma."

Which conjunction is used with Dilemma?

"Or" as in "a dilemma between A or B."

Is Dilemma a negative or positive word?

Generally negative, as it implies a difficult situation.

What is the plural form of Dilemma?

The plural form is "dilemmas."

Is Dilemma a countable noun?

Yes, it is countable. You can have one dilemma or multiple dilemmas.

Is the word Dilemma imperative?

No, it is not imperative; it is a noun.

Which preposition is used with Dilemma?

"In" as in "in a dilemma."

Is Dilemma a noun or adjective?

It is a noun.

How do we divide Dilemma into syllables?

Di-lem-ma.

What part of speech is Dilemma?

It is a noun.

Is Dilemma a vowel or consonant?

It is neither; it is a noun made up of both vowels and consonants.

Is Dilemma an adverb?

No, it is not an adverb.

What is a stressed syllable in Dilemma?

The second syllable, "lem," is stressed.

Is Dilemma a collective noun?

No, it is not a collective noun.

Is the Dilemma term a metaphor?

It can be used metaphorically but is not inherently a metaphor.

How many syllables are in Dilemma?

There are 3 syllables.
About Author
Written by
Janet White
Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie Carlson
Aimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.

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