Choose the option that completes the sentence using the correct spelling.
All of a sudden, they found themselves in a terrible ________.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
dilemma
Explanation
Etymological Root: The word originates from the Greek root di- (meaning two or twice) and lemma (meaning a premise or proposition). Retaining the spelling of the original root lemma requires the use of a double 'm'.
Phonetic Pitfall: A frequent spelling error involves omitting one of the nasal consonants, resulting in 'dilema'. However, standard English orthography strictly demands the double 'm' construction.
Vowel Accuracy: The first syllable uses the vowel 'i' rather than 'e', making alternative options like 'dellemma' incorrect.
Key Points
Word: dilemma
Meaning: A difficult situation or problem in which a choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones.
Grammatical Role: Noun (functions as the object of the preposition in within the sentence).