What is conflicted? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of conflicted in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of conflicted

conflictedadjective

xung đột

/kənˈflɪktɪd//kənˈflɪktɪd/

Where does the word conflicted come from?

The word "conflicted" has its roots in the Latin words "con" meaning "together" and "flictus" meaning "strike" or "blow". The term "conflict" itself was first used in the 15th century to describe a state of war or strife between two or more parties. Over time, the adjective "conflicted" emerged to describe a person who is experiencing internal conflict or being torn apart by opposing feelings, desires, or loyalties. In the 19th century, the term gained popularity in psychological and literary contexts, particularly in relation to the concept of inner strife and moral dilemmas. Today, "conflicted" is widely used to describe individuals grappling with complex emotions, values, or beliefs that cannot be easily reconciled.

Vocabulary summary conflicted

typenoun

meaningconflict, contention, collision

exampleto be in conflict with someone

meaningconflict

examplethe interests of capital conflict with those of labour

meaningopposition, contradiction

typejournalize

meaningconflict, collision

exampleto be in conflict with someone

meaningopposition, against, contradiction, contrary to

examplethe interests of capital conflict with those of labour

Example of vocabulary conflictednamespace

  • The protagonist was conflicted about whether to follow her heart or listen to her practical side when deciding between her dream job and a stable relationship.
  • The politician was conflicted over whether to support the new bill since it went against his personal values but also benefited his constituents.
  • The student was conflicted about taking time off from school to travel indefinitely as she had always dreamed of, because she didn't want to fall behind on her degree.
  • The character was conflicted about revealing their true feelings to their not-so-secret crush, fearing it would ruin the friendship.
  • The Coast Guard personnel were conflicted about abandoning their post during a raging storm, knowing they were putting themselves in danger but recognizing the need to save lives.

Synonyms and related words for conflicted


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