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Faustian dilemma

idiom
Meaning

Having to choose between an option that promises short-term gain with foreseeable adverse long-term consequences, and an alternative option with no short-term gain and possibly even short-term suffering, but promising an eventually better future than the first option.


Examples
SIMPLE

He faces a Faustian dilemma between quick money and his long-term career.

CONTEXTUAL

The politician faced a Faustian dilemma: accept illegal campaign funding for an easy win or lose the election by staying honest.

COMPLEX

The scientist grappled with a Faustian dilemma, knowing that releasing the unproven technology would solve the energy crisis while risking irreversible environmental damage.

Anchors to
Related idioms2entries
  1. 01

    Faustian bargain

    An agreement in which a person abandons his or her spiritual values or moral principles in order to obtain knowledge, wealth or other benefits.

  2. 02

    Faustian deal

    A Faustian bargain.

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