the horns of a dilemma

the horns of a dilemma

Two problematic or unappealing options that one must choose between. I'm really on the horns of a dilemma here—do I say no to this great job opportunity, or do I accept it and move away from my family?

See also: dilemma, horn, of

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

the horns of a dilemma

If you are on the horns of a dilemma, you have to make a difficult choice between two alternatives. I find myself on the horns of a dilemma — whichever option I take, I'm going to disappoint someone. The police were on the horns of a dilemma. The girl appeared to be telling the truth, but it was her word against that of three officials. Note: In logic, a dilemma is a situation where an argument leads to two choices which are both undesirable. In the Middle Ages, a dilemma was traditionally represented as an animal with two horns such as a bull.

See also: dilemma, horn, of

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

(on) the horns of a diˈlemma

(in) a situation in which you must make a choice between things which are equally unpleasant: I’m really on the horns of a dilemma. I need the car but I can’t afford it.

See also: dilemma, horn, of

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017