How to Memorize

it was a catch-22 situation

Analysis

If you are in a 'catch 22' situation, you are in a situation that seems impossible to negotiate due to a lack of logical solutions. One example is if you wish to open a bank account you may need a proof of address, but you can't be issued with proof of address unless you have a bank account. The situation itself is somewhat ridiculous. Similar in meaning to being 'between a rock and a hard place'. This is an informal phrase but you will often hear it used in professional situations..

Social Examples (Advance)

1. It was a catch-22 because I could only land that job if I was rich, but I could only become rich by getting that job.
2. I was in a catch 22 situation. I could only extend my visa by applying within the country but I violated the terms by staying over the current one.

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. The company created a catch-22 when it didn't provide materials or time for people to complete the task but insisted if the task wasn't done, people could not go home.
2. We're in a bit of a catch 22, we need to hire a marketing manager to increase our profits but we can't hire one without the budget to do so.

Further Suggestions