Ask Difference

Dilema vs. Dilemma — What's the Difference?

Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on September 18, 2023
"Dilema" is an incorrect spelling, while "dilemma" is the correct form. Dilemma refers to a tough choice between two alternatives.

Which is correct: Dilema or Dilemma

How to spell Dilemma?

Dilema

Incorrect Spelling

Dilemma

Correct Spelling

Difference Between Dilema and Dilemma

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Key Differences

Visualize the word "lemma" which is a mathematical term, adding "di-" in front.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023
Dilemma has the rhythm of three syllables: di-lem-ma.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023
Remember there are two "m's" in "dilemma" as in "momma".
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023
Recall the phrase "a sticky dilemma" and think of the sticky "mm" in the middle.
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Sep 18, 2023
Think of a "double" problem needing "double m's".
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Sep 18, 2023
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Definitions

Dilema

Dilema is an incorrect spelling of dilemma.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 14, 2023

Dilemma

Dilemma signifies a complex situation with no satisfactory solution.
The political dilemma deepened with the unexpected election results.
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Sep 14, 2023

Dilemma

Dilemma is a situation requiring a difficult choice between two options.
He faced a dilemma between honesty and loyalty.
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Sep 14, 2023

Dilemma

Dilemma denotes a problem presenting two unfavorable alternatives.
It's a dilemma whether to save or spend my bonus.
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Sep 14, 2023

Dilemma

Dilemma is a circumstance wherein both choices lead to undesirable outcomes.
The medical dilemma meant choosing between two risky procedures.
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Sep 14, 2023
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Dilemma

Dilemma is a predicament challenging one's judgment.
Choosing between the two job offers was a real dilemma for her.
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Sep 14, 2023

Dilemma

A situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavorable or unsatisfactory.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

Usage Problem A problem that seems to defy a satisfactory solution.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

(Logic) An argument that presents two alternatives, each of which has the same consequence.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

A circumstance in which a choice must be made between two or more alternatives that seem equally undesirable.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

A difficult circumstance or problem.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

(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".
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

(rhetoric) Offering to an opponent a choice between two (equally unfavorable) alternatives.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

An argument which presents an antagonist with two or more alternatives, but is equally conclusive against him, whichever alternative he chooses.
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Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

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.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 13, 2023

Dilemma

State of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options
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Sep 13, 2023

FAQs

Why is it called dilemma?

It's called "dilemma" from Greek "di-" (twice) + "lemma" (proposition), indicating a choice between two propositions.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

What is the pronunciation of dilemma?

It's pronounced as /dɪˈlɛm.ə/.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

What is the singular form of dilemma?

The singular form is "dilemma."
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Sep 18, 2023

Which preposition is used with dilemma?

"In" or "of" can be used, as in "in a dilemma" or "dilemma of choice."
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Sep 18, 2023

Which conjunction is used with dilemma?

Any conjunction can be used, depending on the sentence. Common ones include "and" or "or."
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Sep 18, 2023

What is the root word of dilemma?

The Greek word "lemma" with the prefix "di-."
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Sep 18, 2023

Which vowel is used before dilemma?

Typically, the indefinite article "a" is used before "dilemma."
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Sep 18, 2023

What is the verb form of dilemma?

There isn't a direct verb form for "dilemma."
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma an adverb?

No, it's not an adverb.
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Sep 18, 2023

Is the dilemma term a metaphor?

It can be used metaphorically, but it's not inherently a metaphor.
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Sep 18, 2023

What is the plural form of dilemma?

The plural form is "dilemmas."
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Sep 18, 2023

Which article is used with dilemma?

Both "a" and "the" can be used, depending on context.
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Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma a noun or adjective?

Dilemma is a noun.
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Sep 18, 2023

How do we divide dilemma into syllables?

Di-lem-ma.
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Sep 18, 2023

What is another term for dilemma?

Another term is "quandary."
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Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma an abstract noun?

Yes, it's an abstract noun.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma a negative or positive word?

Generally neutral, but it often implies a difficult situation, which can be perceived negatively.
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Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma a vowel or consonant?

"Dilemma" is a word, not a single letter. It starts with a consonant sound.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma a collective noun?

No, it's not a collective noun.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

Is the word dilemma imperative?

No, "dilemma" is not imperative; it's a noun.
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Sep 18, 2023

How many syllables are in dilemma?

There are three syllables.
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Sep 18, 2023

What is a stressed syllable in dilemma?

The second syllable "lem" is stressed.
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Sep 18, 2023

What part of speech is dilemma?

Dilemma is a noun.
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Sep 18, 2023

What is the opposite of dilemma?

"Certainty" or "clear choice."
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Sep 18, 2023

Which determiner is used with dilemma?

Determiners like "this," "that," "my," and "our" can be used, depending on context.
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Sep 18, 2023

What is the second form of dilemma?

Again, dilemma is a noun and doesn't have verb forms.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

What is the third form of dilemma?

Dilemma, being a noun, doesn't have verb forms.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

Is dilemma a countable noun?

Yes, you can have one dilemma or many dilemmas.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

What is the first form of dilemma?

Dilemma doesn't have verb forms. As a noun, "dilemma" is its base form.
Fiza Rafique
Sep 18, 2023

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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Sep 18, 2023

Author Spotlight

Written by
Fiza Rafique
Fiza Rafique is a skilled content editor 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.
Tayyaba 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.

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