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

Related Words

• doubt
• hesitancy
• hesitation
• indecision
• uncertainty