The correct spelling is dilemma (with a double M). The spelling dilemna (with an M-N) is an incorrect error with no standing in modern English dictionaries. The word is a noun that describes a situation involving a choice between two equally undesirable or difficult alternatives.
People frequently misspell the word as dilemna because of phonetic overcompensation. English features several words where an M is followed by a silent N, such as solemn, column, condemn, and autumn. These are words of Latin origin. Because dilemna is derived from Greek, and we are used to compensating for silent letters in English, writers overapply the Latin rule. However, standard spelling and etymology dictate that only one form is correct. To maintain proper standard English, always spell it D-I-L-E-M-M-A.
Table of Contents
The Greek Roots: Why “Double M” Wins
The suffix choice isn’t random; it’s determined by the word’s Greek origins.
The parent word: “Dilemma”
The word traces directly back to the Classical Greek dīlemma. This is a combination of two Greek components:
- di- (meaning “two”)
- lemma (meaning “premise” or “anything received”). In Greek, lemma comes from the base lambanein (“to take”). Critically, the standard Greek suffix for forming nouns from this base is -ma, not -mna.
DIL... (Two) + ...EMMA (Premises) = DILEMMA (Correct Greek Root)
Other English words with Greek roots follow the -mma pattern:
- comma
- stemma
- gamma
The -mna spelling doesn’t match the standard noun-forming suffix rule for this type of Greek verb, solidifying dilemma as the etymologically correct form.
Proven Memory Tricks (Mnemonic Devices)
Since memorizing Classical Greek etymology is impractical for everyday spelling, use these quick mental associations to always get the vowel sequence right:
- “Two M’s for Two Premises.” The word dilemma literally means having two difficult choices. Connect the concept of having TWO choices with the TWO M‘s that are absolutely essential to spell the word correctly.
- “Don’t Condemn Dilemma.” You can use a negative association. Condemn is a Latin word that does feature the silent ‘N’. Dilemma is Greek and doesn’t. Condemning the -mna ending as “Latin noise” can help you choose the correct Greek -mma structure.
Part-of-Speech Breakdown & Definition
Dilemma functions as a noun.
| Part of Speech | Definition | Example Sentence | Pronunciation |
| Noun | A situation involving a choice between two equally difficult or undesirable alternatives | The manager faced a severe dilemma between cutting the budget and delaying the project. | /dɪˈlem.ə/ |
Common Collocations & Real-World Examples
- Face a dilemma:“Many consumers face a dilemma when trying to balance sustainability and cost.”
- ethical dilemma:“The case of gene editing presents a profound ethical dilemma for scientists.”
- Classic dilemma:“The story presents the classic dilemma of choosing between love and duty.”
- No easy dilemma:“There is no easy dilemma solution for the ongoing resource crisis.”
Self-Assessment Quiz
Select the correct word to complete each sentence:
- The committee must resolve the ____________ (dilemma / dilemna) regarding the new safety protocols.
- In classical tragedies, the hero is often trapped by an impossible ____________ (dilemna / dilemma).
- The newly available feature creates a new, non-existent ____________ (dilemna / dilemma).
- Good nutrition is indispensable, but finding affordable food remains an ongoing ____________ (dilemma / dilemna) for many families.
- In my opinion, this vintage map is a completely indispensible part of the collection; however, how to preserve it creates a significant ____________ (dilemna / dilemma).
Answer Key
- dilemma — Standard noun meaning essential problem.
- dilemma — Standard noun describing a tragic choice.
- dilemma — Standard noun.
- dilemma — Standard noun.
- dilemma — Standard noun.
