How to Say "quandary" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “quandary” is “dilema” — B1 level.
Examples
Tengo un gran dilema: no sé si aceptar el trabajo en Madrid o quedarme aquí.
I have a big dilemma: I don't know whether to accept the job in Madrid or stay here.
El protagonista de la película se enfrenta a un dilema moral muy difícil.
The main character of the movie faces a very difficult moral dilemma.
Para resolver este dilema, debemos analizar los pros y los contras.
To solve this dilemma, we must analyze the pros and cons.
The 'MA' Gender Rule
Even though it ends in 'a,' this word is masculine because it comes from Greek. You must say 'el dilema' or 'un dilema,' never 'la' or 'una'.
Using it with Verbs
We often use the verb 'tener' (to have) or 'enfrentarse a' (to face) when talking about a dilemma.
Using the wrong gender
Mistake: “Tengo una dilema.”
Correction: Tengo un dilema. (Words of Greek origin ending in -ma, like dilema, problema, and sistema, are almost always masculine).
Related Translations
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