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

/ æmˈbɪvələns /

noun

1. the simultaneous existence of two opposed and conflicting attitudes, emotions, etc

Derived Forms

• amˈbivalent, adjective

Other Words From

• am·biva·lent adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambivalence¹

First recorded in 1910–15; ambi- + valence

Example Sentences

For example, on Taiwan, Mr Mitter points to Trump’s ambivalence about whether he would come to the defence of an island far from America.

From BBC

But even in an optimal scenario, the best you start out with is a degree of ambivalence.

From Slate

In the movie, “Blurred Lines” is framed as a high point in your career, which was something else that surprised me, given that you’ve expressed some ambivalence about the song in recent years.

From Los Angeles Times

McNeal’s ambivalence is boldly handled: Unbridled egotism is punctured with regret.

From Los Angeles Times

Indeed, Rogovoy allows, “Harrison's ambivalence about the Beatles and fame could well be his defining characteristic, if it were not for the essential role he played in helping to create the Beatles sound and inspiring his bandmates to follow along on his musical and spiritual journeys.”

From Salon

Related Words

• doubt
• hesitancy
• hesitation
• indecision
• uncertainty