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

But the government—with a feeble military, weak economy and fear of stoking internal conflict like the 1975-90 civil war—lacks enforcement capabilities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

This constant internal conflict raises a long-standing mystery.

From Science Daily • Jan. 26, 2026

But many in Lebanon fear a new internal conflict could follow.

From BBC • Nov. 26, 2024

But meanwhile, leaving Zionism has relieved her of a feeling of internal conflict.

From Salon • Apr. 21, 2024

But still the transition to the strictly theological standpoint, where individual conviction on the question of Infallibility must be decisively recognised and represented, cannot be accomplished without an internal conflict and shaking of the party.

From Letters From Rome on the Council by D?llinger, Johann Joseph Ignaz von