Cadillac problem
- noun
- /ˈkædɪlæk ˈprɒbləm/
- US
:
problema Cadillac
- Choosing between several amazing job offers felt like a Cadillac problem for Jane.
It's just, it's the if you have never have no problems, it's just do you have Cadillac problems or do you have Plymouth Duster problems?
- It's just, it's the if you have never have no problems, it's just do you have Cadillac problems or do you have Plymouth Duster problems?
Examples
-
Many students face a Cadillac problem when applying to colleges with numerous prestigious options available.
-
When deciding on a vacation destination, I had a Cadillac problem because every place sounded fantastic.
-
It's just, it's the if you have never have no problems, it's just do you have Cadillac problems or do you have Plymouth Duster problems?
How Difficult
- Formal
- US
- Informal
1
8.4
12
1.6
Surface Forms
Morphology
The constituent meanings ('Cadillac' as a marque/colloquial marker for 'the best' and 'problem') give a clear hint that this refers to a problem related to high-quality or desirable options. However, the specific nuance — that it denotes a dilemma caused by having several attractive choices rather than a serious malfunction — depends on cultural knowledge of Cadillac-as-luxury metaphor and is not fully predictable for all B1 learners.
Etymology
Cadillac problem may come from the famous, very expensive car Cadillac, which people saw as the best choice. So, it means 'a problem caused by having too many very good choices'.