Definition
A situation that is impossible to escape because of its own rules or conditions; a paradoxical and frustrating dilemma.
Origin / Etymology
The term was popularized by the 1961 novel 'Catch-22' by Joseph Heller, derived from the titular concept within the story.
Correct Usage Examples
- The company's policy of not hiring anyone without experience and not providing experience to new hires is a classic catch-22.
- The bureaucratic red tape at the office created a catch-22 where no one could get anything done.
- The law states that you must be a resident to vote, but you can't vote to become a resident; it's a catch-22.
Common Misspellings
Cacht-22, Cahch-22, Cahst-22, Cahch-21
Related Phrases
FAQ
What does 'Catch-22' mean?
'Catch-22' refers to a paradoxical situation where the only way to solve a problem is not available due to the nature of the problem itself, making it impossible to escape.
Where did the term 'Catch-22' come from?
The term was coined by Joseph Heller in his 1961 novel 'Catch-22,' which uses it to describe a bureaucratic and illogical situation in the military.
How is 'Catch-22' used in sentences?
It is commonly used to describe a frustrating and seemingly unsolvable dilemma, such as 'The company’s policy is a catch-22: you need experience to get a job, but you can’t get experience without a job.'
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