Definition

A state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone, where a person may feel both positive and negative emotions at the same time.

Example

Her ambivalence about the job offer made it difficult for her to make a decision.

Conversation

I feel so much ambivalence about moving to a new city.

Why's that? It sounds exciting!

Yeah, but I also hate leaving my friends behind.

That's totally understandable; change can be tough.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ambivalence is formed from "ambi-" (meaning both) and "valent" (from Latin "valere", meaning to be strong or to be worth). The word describes the state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something, reflecting strength in both directions of feeling.

Memory Tip

Think of having 'both' ('ambi-') strong feelings ('valere') about something, which helps you remember that ambivalence means having mixed emotions.

Visually Confused Words