How Do You Spell HOBSON CHOICE?

Pronunciation: [hˈɒbsən t͡ʃˈɔ͡ɪs] (IPA)

The term "Hobson's choice" is a peculiar term that means to have no choice at all because the options presented are equally unfavorable. It originates from Thomas Hobson, a livery stable owner in the 17th century, who offered customers the choice of either taking the horse nearest to the stable door or not taking one at all. The word "Hobson" is pronounced /ˈhɒbsən/ with emphasis on the first syllable and a silent "h" at the beginning.

HOBSON CHOICE Meaning and Definition

  1. Hobson's choice is a noun and it refers to a situation in which one appears to have a choice, but in reality, there is only one option available. This expression originated from the practice of Thomas Hobson, an English livery stable owner in the 16th and 17th centuries, who would offer customers the choice of either taking the horse in the stall nearest to the door or none at all.

    In this context, a "hobson choice" is essentially a decision with no real alternatives. It implies that one is forced to choose a specific option, even if it is not ideal or desirable. This lack of choice can arise from various circumstances, such as limited options, pressure, or constraints that prevent alternative possibilities. Hobson's choice can often be characterized by a sense of inevitability and a feeling of being trapped, as there is no real opportunity to explore or consider other alternatives.

    The term "hobson choice" is often used metaphorically to describe situations in which a person is given the illusion of choice, while in reality, there is only one viable option. It highlights the absence of a true selection and emphasizes the notion of being bound or restricted to a single option. This concept is frequently applied in discussions about decision-making processes, business negotiations, and political contexts, where the appearance of choice is presented to maintain the appearance of fairness or opportunity.

Common Misspellings for HOBSON CHOICE

  • gobson choice
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  • jobson choice
  • uobson choice
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  • hibson choice
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Etymology of HOBSON CHOICE

The phrase "Hobson's choice" originates from the name of Thomas Hobson, a 17th-century English stable owner. Hobson would rent out horses to patrons but had a strict policy of offering them only the horse closest to the stable door or none at all. This limited choice led to the phrase "Hobson's choice" meaning an apparent choice where there is no real alternative – basically, a choice between taking what is available or taking nothing.

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