internal conflict

American  

[in-tur-nl kon-flikt] / ˈɪn tɜr nl ˈkɒn flɪkt /

noun

1. psychological struggle within the mind of a literary or dramatic character, the resolution of which creates the plot's suspense.

   Hamlet's inaction is caused by internal conflict.

2. mental struggle arising from opposing demands or impulses.

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Usage

What is an internal conflict? Internal conflict is a struggle within a person’s mind over a problem or question. That’s why it’s called internal.

Etymology

Origin of internal conflict

First recorded in 1580–90

Compare meaning

How does internal-conflict compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• internal conflict vs. external conflict

Example Sentences

But the government—with a feeble military, weak economy and fear of stoking internal conflict like the 1975-90 civil war—lacks enforcement capabilities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

This constant internal conflict raises a long-standing mystery.

From Science Daily • Jan. 26, 2026

That actor should also be of Middle Eastern descent and have the depth to seamlessly convey a person wrestling with both external and internal conflict.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2025

Matrilocal societies are also less likely to experience internal conflict, she says.

From BBC • Jan. 15, 2025

The second type of internal conflict, the man versus self conflict exhibit certain human character weaknesses that can be identified with the acronym FALL: fear, arrogance, laziness, and loneliness.

From Sequential Problem Solving A Student Handbook with Checklists for Successful Critical Thinking by Lozo, Fredric