What does ambivalence mean?
Ambivalence is a complex emotional state characterized by a mix of conflicting emotions or views. It can manifest as a feeling of being attracted to and repelled by something at the same time, making it difficult to make decisions or take a clear stance. Ambivalence is often used in academic or professional settings to describe a state of being torn between two opposing views or feelings. It can be used to describe personal feelings or to describe the behavior of others. The word has Latin roots, coming from 'ambi' (both) and 'valere' (to be strong). Ambivalence is a useful word to describe complex emotional states, and it's often used in contexts where nuance and subtlety are required. It's a word that can help people understand and articulate their feelings, and it's an important concept in fields like psychology and philosophy.
nounA feeling of having mixed or conflicting emotions, especially when you are attracted to and repelled by something at the same time.
- A feeling of having mixed or conflicting emotions, especially when you are attracted to and repelled by something at the same time.
"Her ambivalence towards the new job made it difficult for her to decide whether to accept the offer."
"Her ambivalence towards the new job made it difficult for her to decide whether to accept the offer."
"The politician's ambivalence on the issue made it hard for her to take a clear stance."
The plural form ambivalences is used to describe multiple instances of ambivalence.
"The politician's ambivalences on the issue made it hard for her to take a clear stance."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of ambivalence
The word ambivalence comes from the Latin 'ambivalens', which is derived from 'ambi' (both) and 'valere' (to be strong). This Latin root is also seen in other English words like 'ambidextrous' and 'ambitious'. The word has been used in English since the 17th century to describe a state of being torn between two opposing views or feelings.
How ambivalence is actually used
Ambivalence is often used to describe a state of being torn between two opposing views or feelings. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's more commonly used in academic or professional settings.