- Caught in a dilemma with two equally difficult, dangerous, or unpleasant choices. No good option is available.
Explanation
Origin
- Nautical theory: The devil was a difficult-to-reach seam on a wooden ship's hull near the waterline (deep blue sea). Caulking it was dangerous.
- Mythological theory: Refers to Scylla and Charybdis, sea monsters guarding a narrow strait, forcing sailors to choose a danger.
- Used since the 17th century for any difficult dilemma.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Screwed either way.
- In a bind. / In a jam.
- Up shit creek without a paddle. (Vulgar In a very difficult situation with no easy way out)
- Choice between a shit sandwich and a giant douche. (Very vulgar, from South Park, emphasizing two terrible options)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Properly fucked. (Indicates a generally terrible situation, not necessarily two choices)
Milder/Standard:
- In a difficult position.
- Facing a tough choice.
- In a predicament.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, informal to formal, though slightly dramatic.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The literal meanings (devil, sea) are irrelevant.
- Learners need to understand it represents any two bad choices.
Examples
- If I take the job, I have to move, but if I don't, I'll be unemployed. I'm really between the devil and the deep blue sea.
- The company was caught between the devil and the deep blue sea: either declare bankruptcy or accept a terrible buyout offer.
Dialogue
Liam: The landlord is raising the rent significantly, but finding a new place in this market is nearly impossible and expensive.
Chloe: Wow, you're really between the devil and the deep blue sea. What are you going to do?
Liam: I honestly don't know yet. Both options are terrible.
Social Media Examples
- Political Blog Post: The government finds itself between the devil and the deep blue sea regarding economic policy – raise interest rates and risk recession, or don't and risk inflation. #Economics #Dilemma
- Personal Update: Facing a tough choice about my career path. Feels like I'm between the devil and the deep blue sea right now. Any advice? #CareerChange #ToughDecisions
- Forum Question: Stuck between the devil and the deep blue sea with this repair. Fix the old part (risky) or buy a new one (expensive)? #DIY #Help
Response Patterns
- Typically expresses sympathy or understanding.
- That sounds tough.
- What a horrible position to be in.
- Is there really no other option?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- Listeners might offer sympathy, ask clarifying questions (What are the exact consequences of each choice?), or try to brainstorm third options (Have you considered...?).
- The person in the dilemma might elaborate on why both options are bad.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Describes an existing difficult situation.
Intonation
- Stress often on devil and deep blue sea. Caught between the DEVIL and the DEEP BLUE SEA.
- Usually spoken with frustration, resignation, or describing a difficult predicament.
Generation Differences
- More traditional idiom, possibly used more by older generations, but widely understood.
- Between a rock and a hard place might be slightly more common currently.
Regional Variations
- Used across English-speaking regions, perhaps slightly more common in British English.