conflicting
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of conflicting
Explanation
Feeling at odds? In total disagreement? Then you're probably dealing with something conflicting. The adjective conflicting is rooted in the word conflict for a reason: When things are conflicting they're in conflict, disagreeing or contradicting each other. Conflicting reports or theories go against each other. Sometimes people get conflicting emotions when they're torn over a really hard decision. And conflicting personalities? They're completely incompatible.
Vocabulary lists containing conflicting
Dear Martin
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Thomas Jefferson's First Inaugural Address (1801)
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The misconduct panel heard evidence of "confused and conflicting guidelines" over whether Met officers could use their phones for work.
From BBC • May 3, 2026
If voters approve conflicting ballot measures, the one with more yes votes would take effect.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026
The most extensive assessment of evidence is reserved for Level 7 decisions, involving high stakes and unclear or conflicting evidence.
From Slate • Apr. 28, 2026
Officials on both sides wage information warfare with conflicting social-media posts.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026
Ivan had talked about conflicting schools of thought when it came to dragon development, but there were some points common to both schools.
From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.