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View synonyms for

ambivalence

[ am-biv-uh-luhns ]

noun

  1. uncertainty or fluctuation, especially when caused by inability to make a choice or by a simultaneous desire to say or do two opposite or conflicting things.
  2. Psychology. the coexistence within an individual of positive and negative feelings toward the same person, object, or action, simultaneously drawing that individual in opposite directions.


ambivalence

/ æˈɪəəԲ /

noun

  1. the simultaneous existence of two opposed and conflicting attitudes, emotions, etc
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Derived Forms

  • ˈԳ, adjective
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Other Word Forms

  • ·a·Գ adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of ambivalence1

First recorded in 1910–15; ambi- + valence
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

In a four-star review, the Independent said Nelson-Joyce's "conflicted gangster" and the show's "moral ambivalence" elevated it "above the average boilerplate crime drama".

From

While some actors may feel burdened by their perpetual association with one successful project and want to leave it behind, Fischer has never felt such ambivalence.

From

But even this ambivalence could deter protest activity or indeed any politically disfavored speech.

From

Their relationship deepens over the course of the film, culminating in a final scene that ends their story with a melancholy ambivalence.

From

And with an extraordinary inner strength, but a great ambivalence as well.”

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ambitiousambivalent