predicament
a difficult or unpleasant situation
Roots
- dic / dict: say or proclaim
- pre-: before, earlier, or in front
Other words with the dic / dict root
- abdicate: to give up power or responsibility
- benediction: a blessing or good words spoken over someone
- dictate: to say with authority; to command or prescribe
- dictator: a ruler with absolute authority
- diction: choice and style of words in speech or writing
- dictionary: a reference book or resource for words and meanings
- dictum: a formal saying or authoritative statement
- edict: an official order or proclamation
Dic / dict gives saying or stating. Predicament began near what is stated about a thing, then became the condition someone is stuck in.
The lost passport created a predicament no amount of optimism could solve.
Predicament is best learned through use: a difficult condition you are in. The older logic-family history is there, but the modern word is about the situation that has landed around you.