Question

what is the correct meaning of the word dilemma? the dilemma facing economic policy makers was whether to risk increasing the national debt or let the economy fall into a recession. a destructive or devastating challenge a controversial issue of public policy a choice between two undesirable alternatives a debate or argument between opposite sides

Explanation:

To determine the meaning of "dilemma", we analyze the example sentence: economic policy makers have to choose between increasing national debt (undesirable) or letting the economy fall into recession (also undesirable). Now we evaluate each option:

• "a destructive or devastating challenge": The example is about a choice, not a single challenge. Eliminate.
• "a controversial issue of public policy": The example is a choice, not just a controversial issue. Eliminate.
• "a choice between two undesirable alternatives": Matches the example (choose between two bad options: debt increase or recession).
• "a debate or argument between opposite sides": The example is about a choice, not a debate. Eliminate.

Answer:

c. a choice between two undesirable alternatives