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

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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 Thus, leading to a double bind for Black women athletes such as Reese. Lindsey Darvin, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025 In this climate, managers are in a double bind, between efficiency mandates and employee expectations. Anjali Chaudhry, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025 The concept evidently places defense lawyers in a double bind. Nikhil Krishnan, New Yorker, 31 Mar. 2025 The double bind highlights the hypocrisy women face at work. Dr. Shaheena Janjuha-Jivraj, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for double bind
Recent Examples of Synonyms for double bind
Noun
  • This poses a dilemma since water that is applied rolls down the sides of the container without soaking the soil.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 19 June 2025
  • Thus far, India has escaped this dilemma because successive U.S. presidential administrations have deliberately overlooked these dalliances.
    ASHLEY J. TELLIS, Foreign Affairs, 17 June 2025
Noun
  • On Monday afternoon, when the heat index was again over 100 degrees, these second-floor offices had to close because of problems with the ventilation system.
    Lily Carey, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2025
  • Earlier in the week, American Airlines dealt with another dramatic problem with a connection to the Charlotte airport.
    Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 29 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Double bind.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/double%20bind. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

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