When faced with only two choices, take the third.
When faced with only two choices, take the third.
Meaning in plain English
A third choice sought when only two seem available challenges the framing of a decision. The saying encourages looking beyond an apparent either-or arrangement.
Example
A team asks whether a revised proposal could address concerns that neither initial option meets.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A useful application asks whether a real alternative has been overlooked rather than assuming one always exists. Some constraints are genuine, and rejecting a choice does not create another. Clarify the options and consequences without making inventiveness an obligation in every situation.
When to use it
Use it to examine whether a choice has been framed too narrowly.
Keep in mind
No guaranteed third option or ability to remove every constraint is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Country attributed by the collection
Mongolia · source-attributed; earliest origin unverified
- Source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference
Supplied reference B; unit 405; PDF page 39; collection label: Mongolia
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗