WordGarden.ioambivalent
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /æmbˈɪvələnt/
US
- /æmˈbɪvələnt/
Meanings
Adjective
having mixed or contradictory feelings about someone or something
Beyond the definition
Imagine you're offered the last slice of chocolate cake—delicious! But you're also trying to eat healthier. That feeling of wanting both things and being pulled in two directions? That's being ambivalent. It means having conflicting emotions or ideas about something, which can make it hard to choose. You might feel ambivalent about a big life change, like moving to a new city—excited for the adventure but sad to leave friends and family behind.
Ambivalent isn't just "neutral"; it's an internal struggle. It often shows up when we face difficult decisions or complex situations where there are good points on both sides. A politician might be ambivalent about supporting a controversial bill, recognizing its potential benefits while also fearing the backlash.
To be ambivalent is to have mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. It's more than just indecision; it's an internal conflict where you experience both positive and negative emotions at the same time. Think of it as being pulled in two different directions, unable to fully commit to one side.
The word comes from the Latin ambi meaning "both" and valere meaning "to be strong." So, literally, ambivalent means having "strength on both sides"—a fitting description for that feeling of equal pull.
You might feel ambivalent about a job offer—excited by the challenge but worried about the long commute. Or perhaps you're ambivalent about ending a relationship—recognizing it's not working but still holding on to fond memories.
Ambivalence isn't necessarily a bad thing. It can indicate thoughtfulness and an ability to see multiple perspectives. However, prolonged ambivalence can be paralyzing, preventing you from making decisions or taking action. Psychologists often explore ambivalence in the context of decision-making and emotional well-being. Understanding your own ambivalent feelings can be the first step towards resolving internal conflicts and finding clarity.
So, when faced with a situation that evokes both attraction and repulsion, excitement and fear, remember: you're experiencing ambivalence—a complex state of being pulled in multiple directions at once.
Examples
- 1
Job offer
I'm still ambivalent about the job offer.
- 2
Moving home
She felt ambivalent about moving back to her hometown.
- 3
Career choice
He seemed ambivalent about whether to stay in the company or start his own business.
- 4
Politics
Many voters are ambivalent toward the new policy.
- Patternambivalent toward + person/thing
having mixed feelings about that person or thing
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Literary analysis
The novel is deeply ambivalent about fame, showing both its appeal and its cost.
See also
Similar
- conflicted
- torn
- mixed feelings
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- ambivalent about
- ambivalent feelings
- ambivalent attitude
- deeply ambivalent
Word family
- ambivalence
- ambivalently
Explore
- indecision
- cognitive dissonance
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- ambivalentadjective