divided self

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "divided self" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of internal conflict or a split in one's identity or consciousness. Example: "In her novel, the protagonist struggles with a divided self, torn between her responsibilities and her desires."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

She is the divided self par excellence.

The New Yorker

Our divided self has become one self".

The New Yorker

There is, however, a unification of a previously divided self.

The New York Times

Wallinger's recent work meditates on the divided self diagnosed by psychoanalysis.

The Guardian

Its conflicting moral positions can be read as the expression of a painfully divided self.

The New York Times

This is the great psychological novel about a divided city and a divided self".

The Guardian - Books

The drama of Mr. Thomas's divided self is Matchbox Twenty's selling point.

The New York Times - Arts

It was an emblem of Eliot's divided self, both as a poet and a person.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

One can only speculate about how extraordinary this fine actor would have been playing Dostoyevsky's divided, self-torturing hero Raskolnikov.

The Guardian

Mr. Steiger seemed to shadow Mr. Brando through much of his career, making a specialty of deeply divided, self-destructive characters -- roles well suited to the Method's introspective, psychoanalytic approach.

The New York Times

Julie Barak finds the wording of Yolanda's note to her husband, John, explaining why she must leave him, quite significant with reference to her divided self-concept.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "divided self", consider specifying the nature of the division. For example, is it a division between personal desires and societal expectations, or between different aspects of one's personality?

Common error

Avoid using "divided self" as a synonym for Dissociative Identity Disorder (formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder). The former describes internal conflict or fragmentation, while the latter refers to a specific psychiatric condition characterized by distinct identities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divided self" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and used to describe internal conflict or a split in one's identity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

22%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "divided self" is a versatile term used to describe internal conflict or fragmentation of identity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news, media and scientific contexts. While the phrase is generally correct, avoid using it as a direct substitute for clinical terms like Dissociative Identity Disorder. Consider related phrases like "fragmented identity" or "internal conflict" for nuanced expression. When employing "divided self", specifying the nature of the division enhances clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fragmented identity

Focuses on the broken or disjointed nature of one's sense of self.

split personality

Highlights the existence of distinct and separate identities within a single person.

internal conflict

Emphasizes the struggle between opposing desires, beliefs, or values within oneself.

duality of self

Underscores the presence of two contrasting aspects or natures within a person.

conflicted self

Directly describes a self characterized by unresolved conflicts or contradictions.

inner turmoil

Focuses on the state of internal unrest and emotional distress.

schism within

Uses 'schism' to denote a significant division or separation within one's psyche.

fractured psyche

Similar to 'fragmented identity', but uses 'psyche' to emphasize the psychological dimension.

polarized self

Suggests a self divided into two opposing extremes or poles.

dichotomous self

Uses 'dichotomous' to describe a self characterized by a clear division into two mutually exclusive categories.

FAQs

How can I use "divided self" in a sentence?

You can use "divided self" to describe a state of internal conflict or a split in one's identity. For example: "The character's struggle with his "divided self" led to his ultimate downfall."

What's the difference between "divided self" and "split personality"?

"Divided self" refers to internal conflict or fragmentation of identity, while "split personality", more accurately known as Dissociative Identity Disorder, is a specific mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states.

Are there alternative phrases for "divided self"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "fragmented identity", "internal conflict", or "duality of self".

Is "divided self" a formal or informal term?

"Divided self" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter. It's commonly found in literature, psychology, and general discussions about identity and inner conflict.