love-hate relationship

American  

[luhv-heyt ri-ley-shuhn-ship] / ˈlʌvˈheɪt rɪˈleɪ ʃənˌʃɪp /

noun

1. a state of ambivalence in which one feels both love and hate for someone or something.

   Transylvania has something of a love-hate relationship with Dracula tourism.

   The love-hate relationship between directors and actors is entertainingly dissected in this kiss-and-tell memoir from the directing frontlines.

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Etymology

Origin of love-hate relationship

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

One’s work does not always speak for itself; sometimes a face-to-face relationship counts for more.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 2, 2023

Mr. Klein, lanky and heavily tattooed, was just as eager to resume his face-to-face relationship with Ms. Steinberg despite what he called the “Lady and the Tramp” scenario.

From New York Times • Feb. 23, 2018

This could leave John needlessly annoyed by Jane, a discontent that could seep into their otherwise healthy face-to-face relationship.

From Washington Post • Aug. 29, 2010