What does quandary mean?
A quandary is a state of confusion or uncertainty, especially one caused by a difficult decision or an unclear situation. The word is commonly used in the expression 'in a quandary,' as in 'The unexpected delay put the organisers in a quandary.' It can describe either the mental condition of someone who does not know what to do or the problematic situation itself. A quandary is usually more difficult than a routine problem because the available choices are unclear, conflicting, or consequential. It is a formal and slightly literary term, but its meaning is readily understood in everyday English. The word can also imply a problem with no immediately obvious solution, making it useful for describing situations involving uncertainty, competing obligations, or insufficient information.
nounA state of perplexity or uncertainty, especially when faced with a difficult choice or an unclear situation. It can also refer to the difficult situation causing this feeling.
- A state of perplexity or uncertainty about what to do.
- A difficult or ambiguous situation that causes perplexity.
"The sudden change in the schedule left the organisers in a quandary."
"She was in a quandary when both applicants proved highly suitable."
"The missing documentation created a quandary for the project team."
The plural is used when referring to multiple states of uncertainty or multiple difficult situations.
"The team faced several quandaries while coordinating the event."
When you are in a quandary, the problem may not be what to do, but which way to go.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does quandary come from?
The word entered English in the early 16th century, probably through Medieval Latin, and is associated with the Latin word quandarius, meaning 'in difficulty' or 'in perplexity.' Its ultimate connection has been debated, and the precise development of the form is not entirely certain. Modern usage developed from the expression 'in a quandary' into the independent noun for a state of uncertainty or a troublesome situation.
How quandary is actually used
The expression is formal but widely used. It often appears in the idiom 'in a quandary' and conveys a situation in which choosing between alternatives is difficult or the appropriate course of action is unclear.
Easily confused with quandary
A quandary is a state of uncertainty or difficulty, whereas a quarry is a place where stone, sand, or other material is extracted.