ambivalence

UK: æmˈbɪvələns | US: æmˈbɪvələns

Definition

  1. n. the state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone.

Structure
ambi <both>val <strength/worth>ence <noun suffix>ambi <both>val <strength/worth>ence <noun suffix>
Etymology

ambivalence = ambi<both> + val<strength/worth> + ence<noun suffix>

  • ambi<both>: From Latin ambi-, meaning "both" or "around." Seen in words like ambidextrous (using both hands equally) and ambiguous (having multiple meanings).
  • val<strength/worth>: From Latin valere, meaning "to be strong" or "to be worthy." Found in words like valor (bravery) and value (worth).
  • ence<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns denoting a state or quality, from Latin -entia.

Etymology Origin:
The word ambivalence was coined in 1910 by Swiss psychologist Eugen Bleuler, blending ambi- (both) and valence (from valere, "strength"). It originally described conflicting emotional forces in psychology. The morphemes reflect the tension between opposing "strengths" (e.g., love/hate) within a single state.

Examples

  1. Her ambivalence about the job offer made it hard to decide.

  2. He felt ambivalence toward his hometown—nostalgia mixed with frustration.

  3. The politician’s ambivalence on the issue confused voters.

  4. Ambivalence is common when facing major life changes.

  5. The novel explores the protagonist’s ambivalence about morality.