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What does “the lesser of two evils” mean?
Meaning, example sentences and a quick practice question.
B2
The less unpleasant of two bad options
“Neither choice was great, so I picked the lesser of two evils.”
From the B2 lesson On the Fence (decision idioms).
C1
The less bad of two unpleasant options
“Neither choice was great, but I picked the lesser of two evils.”
From the C1 lesson On the Fence (decision idioms).
Quick check
What does “the lesser of two evils” mean?
Teaching this phrase?“the lesser of two evils” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks B2 Pack 4 (Communication, Decisions and Habits) and Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 4 (Communication, Decisions and Habits).
See the B2 lesson pack See the C1 lesson pack
See the B2 lesson pack See the C1 lesson pack
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Related phrases
- be on the fenceto be undecided about something
- jump the gunto act too soon, before the right moment
- cross that bridge when you come to itto deal with a problem only when it actually happens
- weigh the pros and consto consider the advantages and disadvantages of something
- sleep on itto wait until the next day before making a decision
- put your foot downto firmly refuse or insist on something
- leap before you lookto act quickly without thinking about the consequences
- change your mindto decide differently from a decision you made before
- stick to your gunsto firmly maintain your position or decision, even under pressure
- sit on the fenceto avoid choosing a side or making a decision
- burn your bridgesto damage a relationship or opportunity so badly it can't be repaired
- have a change of heartto change your mind or feelings about a decision