ambivalent
Say it: am-BIV-uh-lunt /æmˈbɪvələnt/ · adjective
What “ambivalent” means
Having both positive and negative feelings about the same thing.
More precisely: Having mixed or contradictory feelings about something.
When to use it
When you see real good and bad sides and feel both at once. Useful in thoughtful conversation or formal discussion.
Memory trick
Ambi- means both: imagine two different feelings sharing the same seat.
Similar words
conflicted, torn, uncertain
Where it comes from
From Latin ambi-, "both," plus valere, "to be strong."
Quick check
You love the convenience of shopping online but dislike its packaging waste. Your feelings about it are…
ambivalent or indifferent?
Show the answer
ambivalent
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