internal conflict

American

[in-tur-nl kon-flikt] / ˈɪn tɜr nl ˈkɒn flɪkt /

noun

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.
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.

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:

internal conflict vs. external conflict

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.

This constant internal conflict raises a long-standing mystery.

From Science Daily • Jan. 26, 2026

Horner, 52, was sacked as Red Bull team principal last summer after a decline in form for the former world champions and nearly two years of internal conflict.

From BBC • Jan. 25, 2026

The nature of the work does produce some internal conflict.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

That actor should also be of Middle Eastern descent and have the depth to seamlessly convey a person wrestling with both external and internal conflict.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2025

But far more trying has been the internal conflict which I have had.

From A Narrative of some of the Lord's Dealings with George Müller Written by Himself. Second Part by Müller, George

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023