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Meaning & use

having mixed feelings

phrase·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˌhævɪŋ ˌmɪkst ˈfiːlɪŋz/
US/ˌhævɪŋ ˌmɪkst ˈfiːlɪŋz/

Meaning

  1. phrasefixed phrase

    Experiencing both positive and negative emotions about something at the same time.

    Grammar: Used as a continuous verb form; often followed by 'about': 'having mixed feelings about the move'.

    Patterns

    • having mixed feelings about something
    • having mixed feelings

    I'm having mixed feelings about changing jobs.

    She was having mixed feelings when she graduated.

    They are having mixed feelings about the new policy.

Common combinations

having mixed feelings about something
He's having mixed feelings about moving abroad.
having mixed feelings towards someone
She's having mixed feelings towards her old friend.
having mixed feelings on an issue
Many voters are having mixed feelings on the issue.

Synonyms and how they differ

being ambivalent
More formal and means having opposing feelings; 'having mixed feelings' is more conversational.
being torn
Suggests a painful conflict between two choices; 'having mixed feelings' is milder.

Opposites

having clear feelingsbeing certain

Word family

mixed feelings noun
A state of having both positive and negative emotions.
feeling noun
An emotion or physical sensation.

Commonly confused: having mixed feelings or having second thoughts?

having mixed feelings vs having second thoughts

'Having second thoughts' means starting to doubt a decision; 'having mixed feelings' means having both good and bad emotions at once.

Practice

She's ______ mixed feelings about the wedding.

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