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

Examples:
  • She felt ambivalent about accepting the job offer.
  • The audience had an ambivalent reaction to the controversial play.
Mnemonics:
  • "Ambi" means both, suggesting the presence of conflicting emotions or thoughts.

Etymology:

Origin:

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:

Idiom:

"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:

Misconception:

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.

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