trilemma

[ trahy-lem-uh ]

noun

1. a situation, analogous to a dilemma, in which there are three almost equally undesirable alternatives:

   His trilemma consisted in not knowing whether to acknowledge receipt, deny it, or simply leave.

2. Logic. a form of argument in which three choices are presented, each of which is indicated to have consequences that may be unfavorable.

trilemma

/ traɪˈlɛmə /

noun

1. a quandary posed by three alternative courses of action
2. an argument one of the premises of which is the disjunction of three statements from each of which the same conclusion is derived

Word History and Origins

Origin of trilemma¹

First recorded in 1665–75; tri- + (di)lemma

Word History and Origins

Origin of trilemma¹

C17: formed on the model of dilemma , from tri- + Greek lēmma assumption

Example Sentences

Trilemma, trī-lem′a, n. a dilemmatic syllogism with three alternative propositions.

From Project Gutenberg

But the dilemma (whose unfortunate inspiration he owes to Kant) does not hold, it is a case of a trilemma.

From Project Gutenberg

But the thing is a trilemma, and the third horn, on which I elect to be placed, is surmounted by a doubly-stuffed seat.

From Project Gutenberg

Our inevitable outlook was a trilemma—either enlarged receipts, or retrenchment, or debt.

From Project Gutenberg