ambivalence

Also am·biv·a·len·cy

[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

Other Word Forms

• ambivalent adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambivalence¹

First recorded in 1910–15; ambi- + valence

Example Sentences

But given the president's previous ambivalence about Nato, alliance members want reassurance that when the sovereignty of an ally is threatened, Washington can be relied on to respond.

From BBC

It was a mix of ambivalence, grievance and concern.

From BBC

When ambivalence — the mental conflict of having mixed feelings — becomes too uncomfortable, people often cope by polarizing their attitudes on unrelated topics.

From Salon

A European sequence drags on and on, overstaying its welcome, but it also underscores Louisa’s divided self as well as Choi’s deep ambivalence about status and privilege.

From Los Angeles Times

There are three threads in the film — the story of Pee-wee, the story of Paul and the meta thread about his relationship with me and his ambivalence about being the subject.

From Salon

Related Words

• doubt 
• hesitancy 
• hesitation 
• indecision 
• uncertainty