Quandary

/ˈkwɒndəri/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A state of perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation.

She was in a quandary about whether to accept the job offer or stay with her current employer.

A difficult situation or dilemma.

His decision to move to a new city left him in a quandary about how to maintain his old friendships.

A situation or problem for which there is no easy solution.

The team found themselves in a quandary when both candidates for the position were equally qualified.

The word 'quandary' comes from the Latin 'quando' meaning 'when'.

in a quandary

to be in a state of uncertainty or doubt about what to do

caught in a quandary

to be trapped in a difficult situation where a decision is needed

face a quandary

to confront a situation that requires careful thought before a decision can be made

dilemma

a situation in which a difficult choice must be made between two or more alternatives

conundrum

a confusing and difficult problem or question

in a bind

I'm really in a bind with these two job offers; it's a total quandary.

stuck between a rock and a hard place

He was stuck between a rock and a hard place about whether to stay or leave.