A difficult circumstance or problem.
A type of syllogism of the form "if A is true then B is true; if C is true then D is true; either A or C is true; therefore either B or D is true".
A circumstance in which a choice must be made between two or more alternatives that seem equally undesirable.
Offering to an opponent a choice between two (equally unfavorable) alternatives.
A dangerous situation; trouble.
fierce criticism
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see hot, water.