internal conflict

American  

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

noun

1. 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.

2. mental struggle arising from opposing demands or impulses.

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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

“There’s an internal conflict—you create more roots, you become a part of the community you’ve been living in for the last couple of decades,” said Hausmann, 44 years old.

From The Wall Street Journal

This constant internal conflict raises a long-standing mystery.

From Science Daily

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

The nature of the work does produce some internal conflict.

From The Wall Street Journal

The contradictory findings have since triggered internal conflict among L.A.

From Los Angeles Times