conflicted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conflicted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of having mixed feelings or being uncertain about a decision or situation. Example: "She felt conflicted about accepting the job offer, as it meant moving away from her family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ebert was conflicted – it offended him to preface his article with such a warning, not least because the NSFW label was, as he put it, an "unsightly typographical offence", but mostly because it "would contradict the point I was making", namely that he was opposed to American puritanism, preferring Europe's supposed festive nudearama.

The Guardian

The cables also warn of Correa's conflicted relationship with the US – a relationship certain to be tested by Assange's asylum application.

The Guardian

In adolescence, this national love affair with Italy conflicted rather eccentrically with a secret aspiration to temper and anglicise my innately Latin character.

The Guardian - Opinion

In that sense, we feel conflicted and compromised in the same way that we do over climate change.

The Guardian - Tech

He was conflicted because he had these two competing strategies and it was very difficult for him".

The Guardian

"They're conflicted in their stated intention, which is to help people give up smoking, and in the way they choose to market their products, which is by having beautiful, glamorous people using them".

The Guardian

And there's also its ongoing battle with New York state: a law introduced in 2011 to curb illegal hotels conflicted with Airbnb short-term rentals, making many illegal.

The Guardian - Travel

Our manager, searching for a compromise, was conflicted.

The Guardian

He had always had a conflicted relationship with his homeland.

The Guardian - Books

Christie's "big tent" approach did not always endear him to colleagues, particularly when it conflicted with Labour's own priorities or tactics.

The Guardian

Americans themselves are hopelessly, perhaps helplessly, conflicted about the NSA program as it's been revealed thus far.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "conflicted", ensure the context clearly indicates what the conflicting elements are. For example, "She was conflicted about whether to accept the promotion or stay in her current role."

Common error

Avoid using "conflicted" when you simply mean "conflicting". "Conflicted" describes a state of internal struggle, while "conflicting" describes things that are in opposition to each other. For example, it is incorrect to say "The two reports were conflicted;" instead, say "The two reports were conflicting."

Linguistic Context

The word "conflicted" primarily functions as a past participle or adjective, often describing a state of inner turmoil or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples where "conflicted" indicates a feeling of being torn between opposing desires or ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conflicted" is a versatile term denoting internal struggle or indecision. Ludwig AI analysis demonstrates its frequent use across diverse contexts, predominantly in news, formal writing, and scientific discourse. It is grammatically correct, and while alternatives like "torn" or "ambivalent" exist, "conflicted" offers a specific nuance of being actively engaged in an internal battle. Ensure clarity by specifying the sources of the conflict, and avoid confusing it with "conflicting", which describes opposing external elements. Ultimately, mastering "conflicted" enhances nuanced expression in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

torn

Expresses a strong sense of being pulled in two different directions, emphasizing the emotional distress of the conflict.

ambivalent

Highlights the presence of mixed feelings or contradictory ideas, indicating uncertainty or indecision.

in conflict

Focuses on the state of opposition or disagreement, highlighting the clashing elements.

at odds

Indicates a disagreement or incompatibility, often suggesting a lack of harmony or alignment.

divided

Suggests a split or separation, emphasizing the lack of unity or agreement.

struggling

Focuses on the internal effort and difficulty in resolving opposing feelings or ideas.

undecided

Focuses on the lack of a firm decision or resolution, emphasizing the uncertainty and openness to different options.

hesitant

Emphasizes a reluctance or unwillingness to act, suggesting a cautious or apprehensive approach.

wavering

Implies an instability or fluctuation between different options or feelings, suggesting a lack of firmness or conviction.

doubtful

Highlights the presence of uncertainty or skepticism, indicating a lack of confidence or assurance.

FAQs

How can I use "conflicted" in a sentence?

Use "conflicted" to describe someone feeling torn between two or more opposing ideas, desires, or loyalties. For example, "He felt "conflicted" about betraying his friend's secret."

What's a good alternative to the word "conflicted"?

Alternatives to "conflicted" include "torn", "ambivalent", or "at odds". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone is "highly conflicted"?

Yes, it's acceptable to use "highly conflicted" to emphasize the intensity of someone's internal struggle. It suggests a strong degree of emotional or mental conflict.

What is the difference between "conflicted" and "conflicting"?

"Conflicted" describes a person's internal state of being torn, while "conflicting" describes things that are in opposition to each other. For example, "He was "conflicted" about his decision because the available data was "conflicting"."