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

As with Kuminga’s entire career, the good and the negative were equally represented, and perhaps nothing displayed the duality of Jonathan Kuminga quite like a half-minute sequence in the second quarter. —Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 13 Oct. 2025

Jude Benhalim The sculptural fashion jewelry of Egyptian brand Jude Benhalim hinged on the duality between gold and silver, instead, as seen in the Una and Mini Harmonia earrings. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025

That duality is not lost on Golden. —Denny Lee, Travel + Leisure, 10 Oct. 2025

This decorative duality is apparent throughout, with old-house character and chaos-friendly practicality considered in equal measure. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 7 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