conflicting sentiments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conflicting sentiments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing feelings or opinions that are in opposition to each other. Example: "She felt conflicting sentiments about moving to a new city, excited for the adventure but sad to leave her friends behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Palestinians have conflicting sentiments, Mr. Shikaki said.

The New York Times

On the Assembly floor, the legislators also voiced raw, conflicting sentiments.

The New York Times

Nearly every war site and exhibition I have seen in the South wrestles with double perspectives and conflicting sentiments alien to the North.

The New York Times - Arts

On top of dealing with confusing feelings about her first kiss, Tiger has to work through her conflicting sentiments toward family and home.

The New York Times

Those conflicting sentiments sum up the terms of Edmond J. English's sudden departure this month after five years as chief executive of the TJX Companies, which operates the Marshall's and T.J. Maxx retail chains.

The New York Times

These conflicting sentiments make no sense.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

It exemplifies the conflicting American sentiments toward Filipino and other Asian immigrants during a good part of the past century.

The New York Times

In a case with conflicting evidence, sentiments about three-time Stanley Cup winner Patrick Kane in his western New York hometown skew in one direction.

The Guardian - Sport

Well, part of what makes a Prada show so entertaining is our own response to the conflicting images and sentiments spinning around us, whether from fashion or the media.

The New York Times

But however conflicted his own sentiments, Higginson was determined that black soldiers should prove themselves the equal of the white troops of either side.

The New York Times - Books

Upon one point there is entire unanimity in public sentiment -- that conflicting claims to the presidency must be amicably and peaceably adjusted, and that when so adjusted the general acquiescence of the nation ought surely to follow.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "conflicting sentiments" to convey internal tension or indecision stemming from opposing feelings or beliefs. For example, when a character in a story has to choose between two equally appealing options.

Common error

Avoid using "conflicting sentiments" when simpler phrases like "mixed feelings" or "uncertainty" would suffice. The phrase is most effective when describing a genuine internal struggle or ethical dilemma.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conflicting sentiments" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of having opposing feelings or opinions, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples where it reflects internal struggles or societal divisions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "conflicting sentiments" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to articulate the presence of opposing feelings or opinions. Ludwig's analysis shows its prevalence across news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, indicating a broad applicability in formal to neutral registers. While alternatives like "mixed feelings" exist, "conflicting sentiments" is especially fitting when describing complex internal struggles or ethical dilemmas. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable, effectively capturing the essence of dissonance within a given context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mixed feelings

A common and slightly less formal way to describe having both positive and negative emotions about something.

contradictory feelings

Emphasizes the opposition between the different emotions or opinions experienced.

opposing emotions

Highlights the direct contrast and incompatibility of the feelings involved.

ambivalent feelings

Indicates uncertainty or indecisiveness due to the presence of opposing emotions.

competing emotions

Suggests that the emotions are vying for dominance or influence.

contending emotions

Similar to "competing emotions", but implies a more active struggle or rivalry.

divided loyalties

Focuses on conflicting obligations or allegiances, leading to emotional conflict.

internal conflict

Highlights the inner struggle caused by the presence of opposing views.

discordant emotions

Implies a lack of harmony or agreement among the feelings experienced.

warring emotions

Suggests a strong and intense internal battle between opposing feelings.

FAQs

How can I use "conflicting sentiments" in a sentence?

You can use "conflicting sentiments" to describe a situation where someone has opposing feelings about something. For example, "She experienced "conflicting sentiments" about accepting the job offer, as it meant relocating far from her family."

What can I say instead of "conflicting sentiments"?

You can use alternatives like "mixed feelings", "contradictory emotions", or "ambivalent feelings depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "conflicting emotions" or "conflicting sentiments"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "conflicting sentiments" often implies a more reasoned or considered set of opposing feelings, while "conflicting emotions" emphasizes the raw emotional aspect of the conflict.

When is it appropriate to use "conflicting sentiments" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "conflicting sentiments" when describing a complex internal state where someone is struggling with opposing viewpoints, values, or emotional pulls, especially in literature, journalism, or academic writing.