Ambivalent
Adjective
Definition: Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about someone or something; uncertain or unable to decide.
Synonyms: Uncertain, Indecisive, Conflicted
Antonyms: Certain, Decisive, Resolute
- She felt ambivalent about accepting the job offer.
- The audience had an ambivalent reaction to the controversial play.
- "Ambi" means both, suggesting the presence of conflicting emotions or thoughts.
Etymology:
The word "ambivalent" is derived from the Latin word "ambi" meaning "both" and "valentia" meaning "strength" or "power".
Historical Usage:The term was coined in the early 20th century by Swiss psychologist Eugen Bleuler to describe a state of conflicting emotions experienced by individuals with psychiatric disorders.
Related Idioms:
"Love-hate relationship"
Explanation:Refers to a complex and ambivalent emotional relationship where an individual experiences both positive and negative feelings towards someone or something.
Misconceptions:
Ambivalence means indifference.
Explanation:Ambivalence is not the same as indifference. It refers to the presence of conflicting emotions rather than a lack of interest or concern.