lesser evil

lesser evil

The less offensive of two undesirable options. Both options are unpalatable, but the lesser evil, in this case, is selling the house. Polls show that the candidate is not well-liked, but is viewed as the lesser evil.

See also: evil, lesser

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

the lesser evil (or the lesser of two evils)

the less harmful or unpleasant of two bad choices or possibilities.

See also: evil, lesser

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017