Is “the lesser of two evils” formal or informal?

It is common in both speech and writing, including formal discussion.

Can I use it for small everyday choices?

Usually no. It is for difficult choices where both options are bad.

Is it the same as “best choice”?

No. It means the chosen option is only less bad, not truly good.

Can I say “lesser of two evils” without “the”?

Yes. People often say it without “the” in natural speech.

← Dictionary

the-lesser-of-two-evils

/ðə ˌles.ər əv tuː ˈiː.vəlz/

IELTSAcademic

idiom

A choice between two bad options, where one is not good but is the smaller harm. People use it when no option feels right.

We took the lesser of two evils.
Neither job was perfect, so I chose the lesser of two evils.
Voting for him felt like the lesser of two evils.

Adinary Nuance

This phrase is not the same as a simple choice or a practical choice. A practical choice can be good and sensible, but the lesser of two evils is still bad. It is stronger and more negative than saying, “I picked the better option.”

In other languages

Vietnamese: ít xấu hơn
Spanish: mal menor
Chinese: 两害相权取其轻
Japanese: よりましな方
Korean: 차선

Etymology

This phrase uses old English words: lesser, two, and evils. It has been used in English for centuries to describe an unhappy choice between bad options.

Common phrases

the lesser of two evilschoose the lesser of two evilsvote for the lesser of two evilssee it as the lesser of two evils

Synonyms

least bad smaller evil lesser evil

Frequently asked questions

Is “the lesser of two evils” formal or informal?: It is common in both speech and writing, including formal discussion.
Can I use it for small everyday choices?: Usually no. It is for difficult choices where both options are bad.
Is it the same as “best choice”?: No. It means the chosen option is only less bad, not truly good.
Can I say “lesser of two evils” without “the”?: Yes. People often say it without “the” in natural speech.