Sit tight as we unravel one of the oldest dilemmas known to humankind—choosing the lesser of two evils. This phrase kicks in faster than you can say “rock and a hard place” whenever you’re stuck picking between two undesirable options.
Proverbs & Origins
You’ll likely be astounded to learn that “choose the lesser of two evils” is nearly as archaic as wearing proper pants instead of yoga pants. John Heywood’s collection in 1546 already had this gem. In fact, this pickle of a choice hails all the way back to the intellects Plato and Aristotle. Chaucer, the man with a way of words, phrased it in Troilus and Criseyde as: “Of harmes two, the lesse is for to chese.”
A Vowel Sound of Wisdom
Before you jump headfirst into your next low-stakes decision, hang on because C. H. Spurgeon in “John Ploughman’s Talk” from 1880 throws a curveball: “Of two evils, choose neither.” Now, let’s call a spade a spade; sometimes not choosing is the most ingenious choice of them all.
Similar Terms & Phrases
- Between a rock and a hard place 🪨
- Damned if you do, damned if you don’t 🚫
- Out of the frying pan, into the fire 🔥
Synonyms and Antonyms
-
Synonyms:
- Hobson’s choice (take it or leave it)
- Moral dilemma
-
Antonyms:
- Win-win situation
- A no-brainer
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “The lesser of two evils is still evil.” — Unknown but obviously a deep thinker
- “Some choices are so mild, you wonder what all the fuss was about. Like deciding between vanilla and chocolate, or whether to watch Netflix or, well, Netflix.” — W.T. Wittywords
Suggested Literature and Media
- Books: “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller 🎩 explains those dizzying, impossible choices in war.
- Movies: “The Devil Wears Prada” 👠 – navigating through choices with either a grimace or a smile.
- Songs: “I Knew You Were Trouble” by Taylor Swift 🎵 – because some choices scream trouble right out of the gate.
- Poetry: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost 🛤 – when you chuck both lousy choices and make your own path.
Educational Takeaways
When you’re getting ambushed with bad decisions, take a minute to redefine the game. Sometimes stepping back instead of choosing ensures that you don’t get slapped with unwanted consequences.
Let’s keep the gears turning:
Until we meet again in the wacky world of words,
W. T. Wittywords
