Definition

A difficult or unpleasant situation that is hard to get out of.

Example

She found herself in a predicament when she lost her wallet in a foreign city.

Conversation

I found myself in a tough predicament yesterday when my car broke down.

Oh no! What did you do?

I had to call a mechanic, but it took forever to get help.

That sounds frustrating! I hate being stuck in those kinds of situations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Predicament → It is formed from "praedicare" (meaning to proclaim or declare) and the suffix "-ment" (indicating the result or condition of an action). The word "predicament" originally referred to a declared or stated condition, particularly one that is difficult or challenging.

Memory Tip

Think of a situation that has been 'declared' ('praedicare') as difficult or challenging — that's what a predicament means.

Visually Confused Words