DOUBLE BIND Synonyms: 24 Similar and Opposite Words

double bind

noun

Definition of double bind

as in dilemma

a situation in which one has to choose between two or more equally unsatisfactory choices the double bind faced by every politician: responding to scurrilous charges only gives them unwarranted publicity; not responding to such charges is often interpreted as an admission of guilt

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of double bind As if breaking the law would offer a symbolic release from this double bind, the third video documents Liden trespassing into the apartment of an anonymous hoarder. — Erika Landström, Artforum, 2 June 2026 Cast members of color, on the other hand, are often trapped in a double bind of sorts. — Shamira Ibrahim, HollywoodReporter, 8 Apr. 2026 China is already facing a double bind of labor shortages in some sectors and unemployment in others. — Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 14 Feb. 2026 This double bind can be traumatic. — Hind Haddad, The Conversation, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for double bind

Recent Examples of Synonyms for double bind

Noun

This creates a dilemma for submitters, who must decide whether to use AI to write or rewrite their materials to gain an advantage, despite rules against it.

— Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026
While synthetic alternatives solve the ethical dilemma, many of them are plastic-based and very difficult to recycle.

— Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of dilemma

Noun

The underlying pathology begins years before symptoms become apparent, and once symptomatic disease develops, cognitive problems generally continue to progress.

— Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 19 Aug. 2026
Jung provides discreet, ever-changing services for powerful clients, solving problems with meticulous planning and quiet efficiency.

— Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 19 Aug. 2026