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Dilemma vs. Problem — What's the Difference?

Dilemma vs. Problem — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Dilemma and Problem

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Dilemma

A dilemma (Greek: δίλημμα "double proposition") is a problem offering two possibilities, neither of which is unambiguously acceptable or preferable. The possibilities are termed the horns of the dilemma, a clichéd usage, but distinguishing the dilemma from other kinds of predicament as a matter of usage.

Problem

A matter or situation regarded as unwelcome or harmful and needing to be dealt with and overcome
The problem of ageism in Hollywood
They have financial problems

Dilemma

A situation that requires a choice between options that are or seem equally unfavorable or unsatisfactory.

Problem

An inquiry starting from given conditions to investigate or demonstrate a fact, result, or law.

Dilemma

Usage Problem A problem that seems to defy a satisfactory solution.
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Problem

A question to be considered, solved, or answered
Math problems.

Dilemma

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

Problem

A situation, matter, or person that is hard to deal with or understand
Was having problems breathing.
Considered the main problem to be his boss. See Usage Note at dilemma.

Dilemma

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

Problem

A personal matter that causes one difficulty or needs to be dealt with
Felt her tyrannical boss had deep-seated problems.

Dilemma

A difficult circumstance or problem.

Problem

A misgiving, objection, or complaint
I have a problem with his cynicism.

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".

Problem

Difficult to deal with or control
A problem child.

Dilemma

(rhetoric) Offering to an opponent a choice between two (equally unfavorable) alternatives.

Problem

Dealing with a moral or social problem
A problem play.

Dilemma

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

Problem

A difficulty that has to be resolved or dealt with.
She's leaving because she faced numerous problems to do with racism.

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.

Problem

A question to be answered, schoolwork exercise.
Study hard, but don't overdo it. The problems in the exam won't be difficult to solve.

Dilemma

State of uncertainty or perplexity especially as requiring a choice between equally unfavorable options

Problem

A puzzling circumstance.

Problem

Objection.
You got a problem with that?

Problem

Difficulty in accepting or understanding or refusal to accept or understand.
You made your best honest effort; if they judge you harshly, that’s their problem, not yours.

Problem

(climbing) A set of moves required to complete a climb.

Problem

(of a person or an animal) Difficult to train or guide; unruly.

Problem

Causing a problem; problematic; troublesome.

Problem

A question proposed for solution; a matter stated for examination or proof; hence, a matter difficult of solution or settlement; a doubtful case; a question involving doubt.

Problem

Anything which is required to be done; as, in geometry, to bisect a line, to draw a perpendicular; or, in algebra, to find an unknown quantity.

Problem

A state of difficulty that needs to be resolved;
She and her husband are having problems
It is always a job to contact him
Urban problems such as traffic congestion and smog

Problem

A source of difficulty;
One trouble after another delayed the job
What's the problem?

Problem

A question raised for consideration or solution;
Our homework consisted of ten problems to solve

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