Dilema vs. Dilemma — Which is Correct Spelling?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 2, 2024
"Dilema" is an incorrect spelling, while "dilemma" is the correct form. Dilemma refers to a tough choice between two alternatives.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Dilema or Dilemma
How to spell Dilemma?
Dilema
Incorrect Spelling
Dilemma
Correct Spelling
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Key Differences
Visualize the word "lemma" which is a mathematical term, adding "di-" in front.
Dilemma has the rhythm of three syllables: di-lem-ma.
Remember there are two "m's" in "dilemma" as in "momma".
Recall the phrase "a sticky dilemma" and think of the sticky "mm" in the middle.
Think of a "double" problem needing "double m's".
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How Do You Spell Dilemma Correctly?
Incorrect: Choosing the right college seemed like an insurmountable dilema.
Correct: Choosing the right college seemed like an insurmountable dilemma.
Incorrect: The moral dilema was too complex to easily resolve.
Correct: The moral dilemma was too complex to easily resolve.
Incorrect: Her dilema was whether to invest in stocks or real estate.
Correct: Her dilemma was whether to invest in stocks or real estate.
Incorrect: He faced a serious dilema in choosing between two job offers.
Correct: He faced a serious dilemma in choosing between two job offers.
Incorrect: The team's dilema was how to improve without increasing expenses.
Correct: The team's dilemma was how to improve without increasing expenses.
Dilemma Definitions
Dilemma signifies a complex situation with no satisfactory solution.
The political dilemma deepened with the unexpected election results.
Dilemma is a situation requiring a difficult choice between two options.
He faced a dilemma between honesty and loyalty.
Dilemma denotes a problem presenting two unfavorable alternatives.
It's a dilemma whether to save or spend my bonus.
Dilemma is a circumstance wherein both choices lead to undesirable outcomes.
The medical dilemma meant choosing between two risky procedures.
Dilemma is a predicament challenging one's judgment.
Choosing between the two job offers was a real dilemma for her.
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
Dilemma Meaning in a Sentence
She was in a dilemma over whether to tell her friend the truth or protect her feelings.
Every character in the story faces a personal dilemma that tests their values.
The classic dilemma of "truth versus happiness" is explored in the novel.
The environmental dilemma we face today is whether to prioritize economic growth or conservation.
The dilemma of balancing work and personal life is common in modern society.
Voters often find themselves in a dilemma when choosing between candidates.
Scientists are faced with the dilemma of using animals in research to advance human health.
He found himself in a dilemma between following his passion or securing a stable job.
The healthcare system is caught in a dilemma between reducing costs and maintaining quality.
Environmentalists face the dilemma of supporting renewable energy projects that may disrupt natural habitats.
Deciding to use limited resources for immediate relief or long-term solutions is a global dilemma.
Addressing the dilemma of climate change requires global cooperation and difficult choices.
The ethical dilemma posed by artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly relevant.
The movie presents a moral dilemma that leaves the audience questioning what they would do in that situation.
Parents often encounter the dilemma of how much freedom to give their teenagers.
Choosing between loyalty to a friend and doing the right thing can be a tough dilemma.
The dilemma of digital privacy versus national security is debated worldwide.
The protagonist faces a dilemma that challenges her beliefs and changes her perspective.
The dilemma of accepting a high-paying job that requires relocating is difficult for many.
The athlete faced a dilemma between competing injured or withdrawing from the competition.
The dilemma of intervening in other countries' affairs for humanitarian reasons is complex.
A common dilemma in business is deciding between investing in growth or paying dividends to shareholders.
Choosing to maintain traditional values or adapt to changing societal norms presents a cultural dilemma.
The dilemma of how much technology to incorporate into education is ongoing.
Dilemma Idioms & Phrases
Face a dilemma
To confront a difficult situation requiring a choice.
He faced a dilemma when asked to choose between loyalty to a friend and honesty.
Caught in a dilemma
Being in a situation where you have to make a tough choice between two or more alternatives.
She was caught in a dilemma, unable to decide which path to take for her career.
A moral dilemma
A situation in which the choice between alternatives involves weighing ethical considerations.
The moral dilemma of self-defense laws challenges individuals and societies alike.
Solve a dilemma
To find a solution to a difficult situation or choice.
After much thought, she found a creative way to solve her dilemma without compromising her principles.
A classic dilemma
A well-known difficult choice that has been debated over time.
The classic dilemma of the chicken or the egg continues to provoke thought and discussion.
Common Curiosities
Why is it called dilemma?
It's called "dilemma" from Greek "di-" (twice) + "lemma" (proposition), indicating a choice between two propositions.
What is the pronunciation of dilemma?
It's pronounced as /dɪˈlɛm.ə/.
What is the singular form of dilemma?
The singular form is "dilemma."
Which preposition is used with dilemma?
"In" or "of" can be used, as in "in a dilemma" or "dilemma of choice."
Which conjunction is used with dilemma?
Any conjunction can be used, depending on the sentence. Common ones include "and" or "or."
What is the root word of dilemma?
The Greek word "lemma" with the prefix "di-."
Which vowel is used before dilemma?
Typically, the indefinite article "a" is used before "dilemma."
What is the verb form of dilemma?
There isn't a direct verb form for "dilemma."
Is dilemma an adverb?
No, it's not an adverb.
Is the dilemma term a metaphor?
It can be used metaphorically, but it's not inherently a metaphor.
What is the plural form of dilemma?
The plural form is "dilemmas."
Which article is used with dilemma?
Both "a" and "the" can be used, depending on context.
Is dilemma a noun or adjective?
Dilemma is a noun.
How do we divide dilemma into syllables?
Di-lem-ma.
What is another term for dilemma?
Another term is "quandary."
Is dilemma an abstract noun?
Yes, it's an abstract noun.
Is dilemma a negative or positive word?
Generally neutral, but it often implies a difficult situation, which can be perceived negatively.
Is dilemma a vowel or consonant?
"Dilemma" is a word, not a single letter. It starts with a consonant sound.
Is dilemma a collective noun?
No, it's not a collective noun.
Is the word dilemma imperative?
No, "dilemma" is not imperative; it's a noun.
How many syllables are in dilemma?
There are three syllables.
What is a stressed syllable in dilemma?
The second syllable "lem" is stressed.
What part of speech is dilemma?
Dilemma is a noun.
What is the opposite of dilemma?
"Certainty" or "clear choice."
Which determiner is used with dilemma?
Determiners like "this," "that," "my," and "our" can be used, depending on context.
What is the second form of dilemma?
Again, dilemma is a noun and doesn't have verb forms.
What is the third form of dilemma?
Dilemma, being a noun, doesn't have verb forms.
Is dilemma a countable noun?
Yes, you can have one dilemma or many dilemmas.
What is the first form of dilemma?
Dilemma doesn't have verb forms. As a noun, "dilemma" is its base form.
How is dilemma used in a sentence?
"She was in a dilemma over whether to attend the event or stay home."
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
