A dilemma is a situation that makes problems, often one in which you have to make a very difficult choice between things of equal importance. Learn how to use this word in different contexts, idioms and collocations with Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Define dilemma . dilemma synonyms, dilemma pronunciation, dilemma translation, English dictionary definition of dilemma . n. 1. A situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavorable or unsatisfactory. 2. Usage Problem A problem that seems to... A dilemma is a tough choice . When you're in a difficult situation and each option looks equally bad, you're in a dilemma. I. What is a Dilemma ? A dilemma is a conflict, problem, or situation with two possible solutions. When a dilemma occurs, a person has to make the difficult choice between two desirable options, or, contrastingly, two undesirable options. The word comes from the Greek dilēmma (di “twice” + lēmma “premise”); it is a term used in logic and rhetoric when causing an opponent to choose between two unfavorable options. A dilemma can have a leading role in a narrative and may be the cause ...