mixed feeling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mixed feeling" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase whenever you want to express that someone is experiencing conflicting emotions, such as when something gives them both happiness and sadness. For example: "John had mixed feelings about his graduation; he was happy to be done with school, but sad to be leaving his friends behind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

"But there's mixed feeling.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is a mixed feeling today.

The New York Times

"It's a mixed feeling," he says.

The Guardian - Music

"It's a mixed feeling to be here," he said.

The New York Times

It's a mixed feeling that I have today".

The New York Times - Sports

"No question, a transition provokes mixed feeling," Father O'Hare said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

There were mixed feelings.

The New York Times

"There are mixed feelings.

The New York Times - Sports

"Tiring, exhausting, mixed feelings.

The New Yorker

Such mixed feelings.

The New York Times

"I had mixed feelings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation, follow "mixed feeling" with an explanation of the specific emotions involved to provide clarity and context. For example, "She had a "mixed feeling" of excitement and nervousness about starting her new job".

Common error

Avoid using "mixed feeling" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your vocabulary by incorporating synonyms like "ambivalent feelings" or "conflicting emotions" to maintain reader engagement and prevent redundancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mixed feeling" functions as a subjective description, denoting an emotional state characterized by the simultaneous presence of positive and negative or conflicting emotions. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is a correct and usable expression in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mixed feeling" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe the simultaneous experience of conflicting emotions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile expression applicable in various contexts, from news reports and scientific articles to casual conversations. When using "mixed feeling", it's helpful to provide context by specifying the particular emotions involved. While synonyms like "ambivalent feelings" or "conflicting emotions" can add variety to your writing, avoid overusing the phrase to maintain reader engagement. The phrase's widespread use across authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its reliability and acceptance in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mixed emotions

Focuses on the emotions themselves rather than the overall feeling.

ambivalent feelings

Highlights the simultaneous presence of opposing feelings.

conflicting emotions

Emphasizes the clash between different emotional states.

uneasy feeling

Implies a sense of discomfort or apprehension alongside other emotions.

divided feelings

Suggests that feelings are split or not unified.

bittersweet feeling

Highlights a combination of happiness and sadness.

complex feeling

Indicates that the feeling is composed of multiple, interwoven elements.

jumbled emotions

Suggests a state of emotional confusion or disarray.

twofold feeling

Indicates presence of two distinct emotional components.

contrasting feelings

Stresses the opposition between the different emotional aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "mixed feeling" in a sentence?

You can use "mixed feeling" to describe a situation or event that evokes both positive and negative emotions. For example, "I have a "mixed feeling" about graduating; I'm excited for the future but sad to leave my friends."

What are some synonyms for "mixed feeling"?

Alternatives to "mixed feeling" include "ambivalent feelings", "conflicting emotions", or "divided feelings", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "mixed feelings" or "mixed feeling"?

While "mixed feeling" is acceptable, "mixed feelings" is more common and often considered more natural, especially when referring to multiple, distinct emotions. Using "mixed feeling" is correct when referring to a general sense that is a blend of emotions.

What's the difference between "mixed feeling" and "ambivalence"?

"Mixed feeling" describes the experience of having both positive and negative emotions about something, whereas "ambivalence" refers to the state of having contradictory ideas or attitudes about something. While related, "ambivalent feelings" often implies a stronger sense of uncertainty or internal conflict.