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.

Internal conflict resolution within states has become increasingly formalized by laws, a judiciary, and police.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Internal conflict led to civil wars in the course of which the group was divided or the solidarity of the group was reaffirmed despite hardships imposed on disagreeing, divergent minorities.

From Civilization and Beyond Learning from History by Nearing, Scott

Internal conflict; but the feeling of the necessity for maintaining his position as Czar is triumphant.

From Demetrius by Schiller, Friedrich

Internal conflict between rival chiefs, attacks on French, British, and American ships, with subsequent reprisals, continued and intensified.

From A Racial Study of the Fijians by Gabel, Norman E.

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