Hobson's Choice
Definition:
"Hobson's choice" is a noun that means you have to choose between accepting what is offered or not having any choice at all. In other words, you can only take what is given to you or walk away with nothing.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "Hobson's choice" when you want to describe a situation where someone has no real options. For example, if a person is offered only one type of meal at a restaurant, they might say they have a "Hobson's choice" if they choose to eat there.
Example Sentence:
"When the job offer came with a low salary and no benefits, she realized it was a Hobson's choice: accept it or stay unemployed."
Advanced Usage:
In more complex conversations, "Hobson's choice" might be used in discussions about economics or decision-making, emphasizing the lack of real options.
Word Variants:
- There are no direct variants of "Hobson's choice," but you might encounter it in different tenses or forms, such as "having a Hobson's choice."
Different Meaning:
"Hobson's choice" primarily retains its meaning of having no real choice. It doesn’t have other meanings as it is a specific phrase.
Synonyms:
- No choice at all - Take it or leave it - Limited options
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that translate directly to "Hobson's choice," you can use similar phrases like "take it or leave it" in similar contexts.
Summary:
"Hobson's choice" describes a situation where you only have one option available, and if you don't want that option, you must choose to do without.