Cover Page of
The Mayfield Handbook of Technical & Scientific Writing
Table of ContentsWriting TimelineIndexHelpCredits

Usage Glossary: A B C D E F G H I K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y

dilemma/problem

A dilemma is a difficult choice between unattractive alternatives. A problem is a situation that must be resolved somehow.


When the prototype did not perform to specifications, we were faced with the dilemma of abandoning the project and losing all the resources we had invested in it to date or going ahead with the project and having no guarantees of any future returns.

Jane described the problem we were having in the waste water treatment facility.


Do not use dilemma in place of problem.


Weak

Can you find a solution for our dilemma?

Improved

Can you find a solution for our problem? [We don't have any solutions right now.]

Improved

Can you find a way out of our dilemma? [We have some solutions right now, but none are attractive.]


Reference Link Text
## dilemma/problem ##
Reference Link Text

[ Home | Table of Contents | Writing Timeline | Index | Help | Credits]