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Is it correct to say "solve a dilemma"? If "solve" is correct only in regard to a "problem," what verb would be used in regard to a "dilemma"?

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  • Yes, you solve dilemmas when you resolve them. A dilemma in all usages is a problem, and problems are solved.
    – Rome_Leader
    Commented Jun 1, 2016 at 17:48
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    Solve can be used anywhere where there is the slightest hint/smidgen of a problem. Quandary, dilemma, snafu, snag, problem, situation, equation, sum, piece, crisis, etc.
    – vickyace
    Commented Jun 1, 2016 at 17:51
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    A search of literature (Google NGram Viewer) suggests "resolve" is the most common choice.
    – MetaEd
    Commented Jun 1, 2016 at 17:59
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    I suspect resolve is the verb with the fewest extra assumptions. NB: the S is pronounced /z/ in resolve, whereas it's /s/ in solve.
    – John Lawler
    Commented Jun 1, 2016 at 18:57
  • Define dilemma and then we can solve/resolve your question. Dilemma can mean difficult problem, in which case you can "solve" it. But classically it refers to a situation involving two unfavorable alternatives, and in this sense "resolve" is better.
    – Alan Carmack
    Commented Jun 2, 2016 at 12:06

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There would be nothing incorrect about solving a dilemma. Since dilemma is a synonym for problem, I don't see an issue with this.

Other verbs may fit better with dilemma, but the context is important here. For example:

CASE 1:

Verb/use case: The couple has been fighting for weeks, they have a dilemma to work out.

CASE 2:

Verb/use case: I called the host to clear up the dilemma of what time to arrive

CASE 3:

Verb/use case: My dilemma is that I don't know which direction to travel, I just need to decide and travel.

You can see how many more options there might be, but solve is certainly appropriate in regards to a dilemma

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    Is dilemma a true synonym for 'problem'? A dilemma is a situation in which you have to make a choice between 2 unpleasant options (the horns of the dilemma). While I agree that many people will use 'solve'; I think there are good grounds for 'escape' or 'get out of'.
    – Spagirl
    Commented Jun 1, 2016 at 18:09
  • I agree. I wouldn't refer to something that could be solved as a dilemma. Solving involves accepting the problem's constraints and working within those constraints. Dealing with a dilemma means you have to change the propositions because you can't satisfy all of the dilemma's propositions otherwise.
    – Phil Sweet
    Commented Jun 1, 2016 at 18:53
  • I think there are clear differences between "problem" and "dilemma", I like to use the word "issue" to describe either a cause or a result. I believe you could 'solve' your dilemma by 'escaping'. All in all, I believe there is a lot of gray area here relating to interpretation.
    – USER_8675309
    Commented Jun 2, 2016 at 14:26
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You would probably be understood if you use "solve", but I think it's not the best choice.

A dilemma is a situation in which you must choose one of two options and the choice isn't easy. Faced with a dilemma, you should make a choice, not solve a problem.

Facing a dilemma is often considered a problem, especially if the choices seem equally unplausible; you may think of making a choice as a problem. But the dilemma itself is not a problem, it's a situation.

Some people use the term dilemma and mean "difficult problem", but this should be discouraged.

Instead of "solve", I would recommend "resolve" when referring to a dilemma. This word is related to solution, decision, settling.

See also Usage discussion in Merriam-Webster.

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