Definition
An unfavorable thing that must be done or accepted, especially because the available alternative courses of action or inaction would be worse.
In Context
- "Another punishing round of chemo is a necessary evil if Lisa is to have a fighting chance against the cancer."
- "My boss is a real piece of work, but my kids make keeping this job a necessary evil."
- "Architecturally the stations of the Tonbridge-Hastings line are of great interest. Wadhurst, Robertsbridge and Stonegate are of simple Italinate^([sic]) style, unspoiled by that necessary evil of a platform awning."
- "But today, with more lineside furniture and infrastructure, the potential for problems to arise is greater. The impact of clearing overgrown greenery is a necessary evil that must be tackled - for a variety of reasons."
See Also
- you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs