conflicted between

USAGE SUMMARY

"conflicted between" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when discussing the difficulty of making a choice between two opposing options. For example, "I was conflicted between my desire to stay home and my obligation to attend the event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Young men are also conflicted between filial obligation and individualistic impulse.

The New York Times

In practice it is hopelessly conflicted between the professional game and the national game (grassroots).

Independent

"We're looking, obviously, for aspiration, for characters who are conflicted between good and evil, dark and light".

The Guardian - Film

The left seemed conflicted between the desirability of the goal and its qualms about the use of military means.

The Guardian - Opinion

Gonzalez, however, was conflicted between support for his player and a belief that the award should be confined to starters.

The New York Times - Sports

In the past, he said, "we were somewhat conflicted between being a liberal arts and sciences college and a marine science college".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Conflicts between neighbours were common.

The Economist

TODAY -- Conflict between neighbors.

The New York Times

No conflict between Museum and New York Historical Society.

The New Yorker

SUNDAY -- Conflict between neighbors.

The New York Times

"Conflict between urges and self-control.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "conflicted between", ensure that the items being conflicted are clearly defined and balanced in terms of their significance to the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "conflicted with" instead of "conflicted between" when referring to choices or options. "Conflicted with" implies an external opposition, while "conflicted between" emphasizes internal division.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conflicted between" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating a state of internal struggle or indecision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing characters or entities facing opposing forces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conflicted between" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to express internal struggle or indecision when faced with two distinct choices. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It frequently appears in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, indicating a neutral to formal register. When writing, ensure you use "conflicted between" to accurately convey internal division, rather than "conflicted with", and clearly define the opposing options to enhance clarity. Using alternatives such as "torn between" or "caught between" can add nuance depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

torn between

Emphasizes the emotional distress of having to choose between two options.

caught between

Suggests being trapped or restrained by conflicting forces.

wavering between

Implies indecisiveness and fluctuation between options.

struggling with

Focuses on the internal battle caused by opposing desires or obligations.

undecided between

Highlights the lack of a clear decision regarding the options.

in two minds about

Indicates uncertainty and a lack of conviction.

experiencing inner conflict

Highlights the internal distress of having two opposing views.

ambivalent about

Suggests mixed feelings and uncertainty.

facing a dilemma

Highlights the problematic situation of having to choose between two options.

at odds with oneself

Emphasizes the internal discord and lack of harmony.

FAQs

How can I use "conflicted between" in a sentence?

The phrase "conflicted between" is used to express a state of indecision or internal struggle between two options, such as "She was conflicted between her career and her family".

What's a good alternative to "conflicted between"?

Alternatives include phrases like "torn between", "caught between", or "wavering between", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "conflicted with" instead of "conflicted between"?

While "conflicted with" can describe opposition, "conflicted between" is more appropriate when describing an internal struggle or indecision between two distinct choices.

What does it mean to be "conflicted between" two things?

To be "conflicted between" two things means to experience an internal struggle or uncertainty because you have competing desires, obligations, or beliefs related to those two things.