internal conflict
Americannoun
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internal conflicts
plural
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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.
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mental struggle arising from opposing demands or impulses.
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.
Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
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:
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.
According to her notes, some said they found the internal conflict unnecessary.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 5, 2026
Decades on from the end of a civil war that killed 150,000 people, Lebanon remains deeply divided and still lives under the spectre of internal conflict.
From Barron's ● Sep. 16, 2026
Cepeda has pledged economic reforms if elected, including expanding welfare benefits and handing land to victims of internal conflict.
From BBC ● May 31, 2026
This constant internal conflict raises a long-standing mystery.
From Science Daily ● Jan. 26, 2026
"That ought to be enough, I think," said the Captain, with a degree of irritation that bespoke a long internal conflict.
From The Martins Of Cro' Martin, Vol. II (of II) by Charles James Lever
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