Hobson's choice
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He laments the use of fixed penalty notices, in which offenders are offered the Hobson’s choice of paying minor fines or fighting criminal offenses for a litany of “anti-social behaviors.”
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026
Former acting Solicitor General Neal Kaytal said the ex-president will face a "Hobson's choice" to either answer questions or invoke his Fifth Amendment rights.
From Salon • Nov. 6, 2023
They are caught off guard by the sudden change, and then face a Hobson’s choice — a choice where only one option is realistically feasible.
From Seattle Times • Aug. 7, 2023
My colleague insists on a Hobson’s choice for these communities: decide between their constitutional rights against unwarranted searches and seizures or forgo governmental protection that is readily afforded to other communities.
From Slate • Jul. 16, 2020
"The ferry is not coming back for to-day and so—" Well, I paid him the money on the strength of my side partner's report; besides, it was Hobson's choice.
From The Trail of the Goldseekers A Record of Travel in Prose and Verse by Garland, Hamlin
