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

This theme of duality and contradictions is going to be the central narrative with Jupiter entering Gemini, your ninth house this spring. —Cnt Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2024

This week's challenge would be for the chefs to pair off and create two dishes that represent the theme of duality — a signature of Wright’s creations. —Rachel Bernhard, Journal Sentinel, 10 Apr. 2024

Like the masks, Alan Ritchson is a study in duality. —Chris Gardner, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Apr. 2024

Allen’s play is the ultimate case of duality with his playmaking and proneness to turnovers. —David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 3 Jan. 2024

Anybody who feels the duality of being an immigrant child, having one culture passed down to them but living an entirely different one, knows that clash of ideologies can be so difficult to navigate. —Cat Cardenas, Los Angeles Times, 16 Mar. 2024

What’s especially compelling about the community is its duality. —Kansas City Star, 25 Jan. 2024

The baths are equal parts sanctuary and playground in summer—a duality found only in Budapest. —Alia Akkam, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Mar. 2024

This duality, the interplay between the aggression of combat sports and the calming, focusing influence of cannabis, forms the core of Tyson's advocacy. —Javier Hasse, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above