On the horns of a dilemma
phrase
Being forced to choose between two unfavorable options.
I was on the horns of a dilemma, I could either admit that I had made a mistake and risk getting fired or keep quiet and continue feeling guilty.
Often appears as...
- find oneself on the horns of a dilemma
- put someone on the horns of a dilemma
Usage tips
Formal
Idiomatic
phrase
Being forced to choose between two unfavorable options.
I was on the horns of a dilemma, I could either admit that I had made a mistake and risk getting fired or keep quiet and continue feeling guilty.
Often appears as...
- find oneself on the horns of a dilemma
- put someone on the horns of a dilemma
Usage tips
Formal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Choice Stress
The phrase implies stress due to difficult choices, not everyday decisions.
Deciding between caring for an ill parent or accepting a dream job abroad, she was on the horns of a dilemma.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
It's a metaphorical expression and doesn't involve real horns or physical dilemmas.
Choosing a major felt like being on the horns of a dilemma, with passion and practicality at odds.
Pro Tip 3/3Strong Connotation
Use it for serious, impactful dilemmas, not trivial or humorous situations.
Faced with the need to cut jobs or reduce salaries, the CEO was on the horns of a dilemma.
Pro Tip 1/3Choice Stress
The phrase implies stress due to difficult choices, not everyday decisions.
Deciding between caring for an ill parent or accepting a dream job abroad, she was on the horns of a dilemma.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
It's a metaphorical expression and doesn't involve real horns or physical dilemmas.
Choosing a major felt like being on the horns of a dilemma, with passion and practicality at odds.
Pro Tip 3/3Strong Connotation
Use it for serious, impactful dilemmas, not trivial or humorous situations.
Faced with the need to cut jobs or reduce salaries, the CEO was on the horns of a dilemma.
Pro Tip 1/3Choice Stress
The phrase implies stress due to difficult choices, not everyday decisions.
Deciding between caring for an ill parent or accepting a dream job abroad, she was on the horns of a dilemma.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
It's a metaphorical expression and doesn't involve real horns or physical dilemmas.
Choosing a major felt like being on the horns of a dilemma, with passion and practicality at odds.
Pro Tip 3/3Strong Connotation
Use it for serious, impactful dilemmas, not trivial or humorous situations.
Faced with the need to cut jobs or reduce salaries, the CEO was on the horns of a dilemma.
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