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Definition of ambivalence

ambivalence

/æmˈbɪv.ə.ləns/
am · biv · a · lence
Adverb:ambivalently
•
Plural:ambivalences
•
Adjective:ambivalent
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ambivalence Lexical Profile

ambivalence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone; simultaneous attraction toward and repulsion from an object, person, or action.

Example

"The voters expressed deep ambivalence about the proposed tax reform, welcoming the infrastructure funding while fearing higher living costs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ambivalence
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ambivalence

Word Nuance & Usage

'Ambivalence' should not be confused with 'indifference' (a lack of interest or concern) or 'ambiguity' (openness to multiple interpretations); 'ambivalence' specifically denotes having strong, conflicting feelings about something at the same time.

• Rhymes for ambivalence

• Nearby Words

ambitious
ambitiously
ambitiousness
ambivalence
ambivalent
ambivalently
ambivert

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1910 as German Ambivalenz by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler, modeled on 'equivalence' from Latin ambi- ('both') and valentia ('strength, vigor').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ambivalence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ambivalence
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