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having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone.
synonyms:uncertainindecisive
The word 'ambivalent' comes from the Latin 'ambivalens', meaning 'to be in two minds'. It was first used in English in the early 20th century, primarily in psychological contexts.
Everyday use and psychological contexts.
While not an everyday word for everyone, it is commonly used in discussions around emotions and decision-making.
She felt ambivalent about moving to a new city; excited for the adventure but sad to leave her friends.
His ambivalent attitude towards the project made it difficult for the team to make a decision.
After reading the book, I was ambivalent about whether I liked it or not; parts of it were brilliant, but others fell flat.
The word 'ambivalent' captures the essence of feeling torn between two opposing emotions or ideas. Its roots in Latin remind us that this struggle between conflicting feelings has been part of the human experience for centuries. Whether you're deciding on a new job or grappling with a big life change, ambivalence can be a common companion. It's a fascinating word that perfectly describes those moments when your heart says one thing and your mind says another!