English · Emotions & Feelings
ambivalence
/æmˈbɪv.ə.ləns/
[/æmˈbɪv.ə.ləns/]
mixed feelings
Advancednoun
Definition
The state of having mixed or contradictory feelings about something.
Example
She felt deep ambivalence about the move, excited by the new city yet sad to leave home.
She felt deep ambivalence about the move, excited by the new city yet sad to leave home.
Etymology
From Latin 'ambi-' (both) and 'valentia' (strength); coined in psychology around 1910.
How & Where It’s Used
Describes simultaneously holding opposing feelings or attitudes.