ambivalent

[am-biv-uh-luhnt] / æmˈbɪv ə lənt /

ADJECTIVE

conflicting

Synonyms

STRONGEST

contradictory doubtful equivocal hesitant mixed uncertain undecided unsure

WEAK

clashing debatable fluctuating inconclusive irresolute opposed unresolved vacillating warring wavering

Antonyms

STRONGEST

certain clear decided definite determined secure settled sure undoubted unquestionable

WEAK

resolved unequivocal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

North Carolina resident Shelley Hughes was more ambivalent.

From Barron's • Mar. 20, 2026

Some manufacturers definitely want turbos to stay, others are more ambivalent.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

A terrific story captures the ambivalent emotions surrounding the ballet performance of Sylvia’s teenage grandchildren.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026

For many Latino members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there is an ambivalent sense of the Church’s stance on immigrants.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 9, 2025

I rolled over to look at her, and her expression seemed ambivalent.

From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer

Vocabulary lists containing ambivalent

100 SAT Words Beginning with "A"

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300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words

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Grade 11, List 1

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