Noun
/sˈkɪlə/
"Scylla" refers to a figure from Greek mythology, often depicted as a dangerous sea monster who lurked on one side of a strait. She is known for her role in Homer’s "Odyssey," where she is positioned opposite Charybdis, creating a formidable challenge for sailors who must navigate between them. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where one is faced with two equally perilous alternatives.
In contemporary usage, "Scylla" is not commonly used in everyday conversation but may appear in literary contexts, discussions of mythology, or in metaphorical expressions. Its usage is generally more prevalent in written contexts than in oral speech.
Sailors feared the treacherous waters controlled by Scylla.
Translation: Los marineros temían las traicioneras aguas controladas por Escila.
In his journey, the hero had to choose between Scylla and Charybdis.
Translation: En su viaje, el héroe tuvo que elegir entre Escila y Caribdis.
Encountering Scylla and Charybdis made his decision even more difficult.
Translation: Encontrarse con Escila y Caribdis hizo que su decisión fuera aún más difícil.
The term "Scylla" is often used in the phrase "between Scylla and Charybdis," which means being caught between two difficult choices or situations that both pose dangers.
She felt she was between Scylla and Charybdis when choosing to support either side of the argument.
Translation: Se sentía atrapada entre Escila y Caribdis al elegir apoyar a cualquiera de las partes del argumento.
The government is often caught between Scylla and Charybdis when making economic decisions that affect the populace.
Translation: El gobierno a menudo está atrapado entre Escila y Caribdis al tomar decisiones económicas que afectan a la población.
Navigating through the corporate world can sometimes feel like being between Scylla and Charybdis.
Translation: Navegar por el mundo corporativo a veces puede sentirse como estar entre Escila y Caribdis.
The diplomat found himself between Scylla and Charybdis, balancing the demands of two hostile nations.
Translation: El diplomático se encontró entre Escila y Caribdis, equilibrando las demandas de dos naciones hostiles.
The name "Scylla" originates from Latin "Scylla," which is derived from Ancient Greek "Σκύλλα" (Skýlla). The mythological figure is thought to have roots in ancient maritime cultures that revered sea deities and monsters.
In summary, "Scylla" serves as a rich term synonymous with danger and difficult choices, particularly in literary and mythological contexts. Its usage in idiomatic expressions underscores the concept of perilous decisions, rooted deeply in Greek lore.