🐂 On the Horns of a Dilemma: Dodging Double Trouble 🎭
On the horns of a dilemma: Faced with two equally undesirable alternatives. In Greek logic, a lemma was a premise, a matter taken for granted in an argument, whereas a dilemma (a double lemma) was an either/or proposition. The Romans called this an argumentum cornutum, or “horned argument,” because one could be caught on either horn. In the sixteenth century Nicholas Udall, translator of Erasmus, turned it into a horned question: “Because that to whether of both partyes a bodye shall make a direct aunswere, he shall renne on the sharpe poyncte of a horne.” Soon thereafter, it began to be called “the horns of a dilemma.”
Related Expressions, Phrases, and Idioms
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Caught between a rock and a hard place: Trapped between two equally tough spots.
Similar feel, probably not as pointy.
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The lesser of two evils: Choosing the less damaging of two bad choices.
It’s still evil, but hey, pick your poison!
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Stuck in a catch-22: A dilemma where one can’t proceed because of contradictory constraints.
Just keep catching, it’s fine.
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Double-edged sword: A situation that has both positive and negative consequences.
Sharp on both sides; careful!
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Quandary
- Predicament
- Bind
- Impasse
Antonyms:
- Easy choice
- Open-and-shut case
- No-brainer
- Clear path
Humorous Quote 🤹♂️
“I always avoid having arguments with women about two things: their age and their weight. You could say I’m forever on the horns of a dilemma.”
— Sir Loin of Beef 🥩
Proverbs and References 📜
“Out of the frying pan, into the fire.”
— Essentially saying, “Congrats! Your actions just landed you into a worse mess!”
Suggested Literature and Media 📚
Books:
- “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller
- “Sophie’s Choice” by William Styron
Songs:
- “Stuck in the Middle with You” by Stealers Wheel
- “Two Princes” by Spin Doctors
Movies:
- “The Devil’s Advocate” (1997)
- “The Godfather” (1972)
Quizzes 🎲
Published by Quirky Quandaries Press 📝
Any predicament can be an adventure if you have the right attitude. Remember, life’s greatest dilemmas often lead to the most inspiring stories.
