Hobson's choice definitions
| Word backwards | s'nosboH eciohc |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | Hob-son's choice |
| Plural | The plural of the word Hobson's choice is Hobson's choices. |
| Total letters | 13 |
| Vogais (3) | o,i,e |
| Consonants (6) | h,b,s,n,c |
Hobson's choice is a term used to describe a situation where someone is given a choice between taking what is offered or receiving nothing at all. This phrase originated from the character Hobson in the play "A Bold Stroke for a Wife" by Thomas Morton.
Origin of the Term
In the play, Hobson is a strict father who gives his daughter's hand in marriage to the man his daughter chooses. However, he presents his daughters with a choice - either marry the man he has chosen or remain unmarried. This ultimatum became known as Hobson's choice.
Meaning and Usage
Today, the term is commonly used to describe a situation where only one option is given, leaving the person with no real choice in the matter. It is often seen as a dilemma where the person is forced to accept what is offered, regardless of whether it is truly what they want.
In essence, Hobson's choice highlights the lack of free will or alternatives in a decision-making process. It illustrates a situation where the outcome is predetermined, and the individual has no say in the matter.
Examples in Everyday Life
An example of Hobson's choice could be a job offer with an ultimatum of accepting a low salary or not getting the job at all. In this scenario, the individual is faced with a decision where neither option is desirable, but they are forced to choose one.
Overall, Hobson's choice is a concept that reflects a lack of real choice or agency in decision-making. It emphasizes the constraints placed on individuals when they are presented with limited or unappealing options, ultimately leaving them with little control over the outcome.ultimatum and dilemma. Hobson's choice remains a powerful metaphor for situations where true choice is an illusion.
Hobson's choice Examples
- The customer was given a Hobson's choice between the expensive option or nothing at all.
- The professor presented the students with a Hobson's choice: pass the final exam or fail the course.
- The landlord offered the tenant a Hobson's choice: pay the increased rent or move out.
- The company provided its employees with a Hobson's choice: accept a pay cut or be laid off.
- The politician faced a Hobson's choice: support the controversial policy or lose the party's backing.
- The captain of the team had to make a Hobson's choice: play the injured star player or risk losing the game.
- The doctor gave the patient a Hobson's choice: undergo surgery or live with the pain.
- The parent presented the child with a Hobson's choice: finish their homework or lose TV privileges.
- The coach gave the athlete a Hobson's choice: train harder or be benched for the upcoming competition.
- The boss offered the employee a Hobson's choice: work overtime or face consequences.