The phrase "stark choice" means having to make a very clear and difficult decision between two options that are completely different from each other. Full definition
And the new rules, according to school leaders, will force districts into stark choices about how to allocate their resources. (ncpolicywatch.com)
As part of that reinvention he urges Transition Movements to convey the sense of urgency around climate change and peak oil to their communities — arguing that within a few short years we will begin facing stark choices about «how we live, where we live, and even who lives.» (treehugger.com)