Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
necessary-evil
noun
/ˈnɛsəˌsɛri ˈɛvəl/
Definition
A situation or action that is undesirable but must be accepted or performed to achieve a desired outcome.
Examples
- Some people view taxes as a necessary evil for maintaining public services.
- In order to maintain peace, negotiations may entail making a necessary evil choice.
- She considered the late-night work shift a necessary evil to afford her education.
Meaning
The term refers to something that is not pleasant or agreeable but is deemed essential for a greater good or purpose.
Synonyms
- unpleasant necessity
- compromise
- painful requirement
- lesser evil
