duality

noun

du·​al·​i·​ty dü-ˈa-lə-tē 

also dyü-

plural dualities

: the quality or state of having two different or opposite parts or elements : dualism

That duality—sophistication paired with authenticity on the wine list, simplicity spiced with creativity on the menu—gives Marea energy and distinctive character.

—Thomas Matthews

Another series from later years consisted of views of New York skyscrapers … which incorporate abstract patterns of light and shadow that express the duality of feeling, the fascination and loathing he had come to feel for the city.

—Naomi Rosenblum

By the wave/particle duality of quantum mechanics, light can be regarded as both a wave and a particle.

—Stephen Hawking

also : a difference between two opposite things : a division into two opposite groups : dichotomy

For the most part Prince seems to be hoisting himself on the horns of the same duality that inspires most of his song lyrics: spirituality vs. carnality.

—David Hiltbrand

As my meditation teacher says, "Judgment is a form of violence to yourself as well as others. It creates duality and separates you from others."

—Yoga Journal

Examples of duality in a Sentence

the duality of human nature

They discussed the dualities of the novel's characters.

Recent Examples on the Web

Then again, this is the same team that went from winning the Presidents’ Trophy in 2024 to missing the playoffs in 2025, so maybe the whole duality thing is just kind of their vibe. —Sean McIndoe, New York Times, 10 Nov. 2025

Harry also saw demonstrations from the base’s dive team, deck team weapons display, operations team and band members, talking to personnel about the duality of their commitments as reservists and civilians. —Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 5 Nov. 2025

Much has been said about Bella's plain-Jane persona, but Stewart's earnest performance vivifies the character with a plucky yet lovesick duality that also grounds the film's lofty fantasy sequences. —Edward Segarra, USA Today, 31 Oct. 2025

This new record seemingly captures that duality. —Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 30 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for duality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• fatality
• finality
• formality
• frugality
• legality
• lethality