conflicted

adjective

con·​flict·​ed kən-ˈflik-təd 

: experiencing or marked by ambivalence or a conflict especially of emotions

conflicted feelings

… these people are … conflicted in their values and beliefs.

—Norman Ornstein

Synonyms of conflicted

• unsure
• ambivalent
• afraid
• hesitant
• uncertain

Examples of conflicted in a Sentence

She was still conflicted about her ex-husband's remarriage.

I'm conflicted about the prospect of our only child going away to college.

Recent Examples on the Web

The traditional Marxist framework may explain why Flaubert, the conflicted son of a successful provincial surgeon, wrote naturalistic novels mocking the grandiose aspirations of the rural bourgeoisie, Sartre conceded. — Literary Hub, 21 July 2026

In astrology, oppositions expose tension between two elemental forces, often through external circumstances or confrontations that make conflicted feelings impossible to ignore. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 20 July 2026

Soprano Michelle Allie Drever sings the title role, while tenor Maxwell Ary is Ruggero, the object of her conflicted affections. — Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 16 July 2026

Her sharp writing, distinctive sense of humor, and authentic portrayal of a young woman navigating a deeply conflicted relationship with herself and her family are truly remarkable. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

from past participle of conflict entry 2

First Known Use

1789, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for conflicted

• addicted
• afflicted
• constricted
• convicted
• depicted
• evicted
• inflicted
• predicted
• restricted
• contradicted
• interdicted
• unrestricted

Medical Definition

conflicted

adjective

con·​flict·​ed kən-ˈflik-təd 

: having or experiencing emotional conflict

working women were much more conflicted about working than full-time mothers were about staying home

—People