Ambivalent: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone has mixed or conflicting feelings about something.

• She felt ambivalent about leaving her hometown for a new job opportunity.
• His ambivalent feelings towards the project made it hard for him to commit.

Used when someone is unsure about something, either because they lack information or because the situation is unclear.

• They were uncertain about the weather and decided to postpone the trip.
• She felt uncertain about which college to choose.

Describes a strong feeling of being torn between two or more choices or emotions, often causing stress.

• He was conflicted about whether to tell his friend the truth.
• She felt conflicted between pursuing her career and spending more time with her family.

Used when someone is uncertain or lacks confidence in something, often carrying a slightly negative connotation.

• He seemed doubtful about the success of the new marketing campaign.
• She felt doubtful that they would be able to finish the project on time.

Refers to someone pausing or delaying because of uncertainty or indecision.

• He was hesitant to invest in the new start-up.
• She seemed hesitant to speak up during the meeting.