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Definition of ambivalently

ambivalently

/æmˈbɪv.ə.lənt.li/
am · biv · a · lent · ly
Adjective:ambivalent
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ambivalently Lexical Profile

ambivalently Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner characterized by mixed, simultaneous, and contradictory feelings or attitudes toward a person, thing, or situation; with uncertainty or fluctuation between opposing choices.

Example

"She spoke ambivalently about relocating to the capital, excited by the career promotion yet reluctant to leave her close-knit community."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ambivalently
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ambivalently

Word Nuance & Usage

'Ambivalently' indicates having mixed or contradictory feelings about something, and should not be confused with 'indifferently' (having no feelings or concern) or 'ambiguously' (having an unclear meaning).

• Rhymes for ambivalently

• Nearby Words

ambitiousness
ambivalence
ambivalent
ambivalently
ambivert
amble
ambler

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'ambivalent' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'; 'ambivalence' was coined in 1910 by Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler in German ('Ambivalenz'), combining Latin 'ambi-' (both) and 'valentia' (strength, capacity).

Cite this Entry

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