Word
ambivalence
Meanings
mixed or conflicting feelings about a person, situation, or choice
uncertainty or hesitation caused by having both positive and negative views
Definition
Ambivalence is the state of having mixed or conflicting feelings about someone or something.
Ambivalence means you feel two opposite emotions or attitudes at the same time. For example, you might want something but also feel unsure or worried about it. It often shows up when a decision is difficult or when a situation has both good and bad sides.
Examples
- She felt ambivalence about moving to a new city.
- His ambivalence showed when he smiled but avoided answering.
- I have ambivalence toward social media because it connects me and distracts me.
- Their ambivalence about the plan delayed the decision.
- There was ambivalence in the room as everyone considered the risks.