Which word describes having mixed feelings or being unsure?

• A. Abstain
• B. Apply
• C. Ambivalent
• D. Assent

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is describing mixed feelings or uncertainty about something. Ambivalent precisely captures that sense of having opposing emotions or thoughts at once, which leads to hesitation or indecision. For example, you might feel ambivalent about a big move because you’re excited about new opportunities but sad to leave friends behind; that inner tug between feelings is what ambivalence is all about.

Abstain means to hold back from doing something, like choosing not to eat sweets. Apply can mean to put to use or to request something, which isn’t about inner mixed feelings. Assent means to agree or consent. None of these convey the sense of having competing feelings or doubt in a situation the way ambivalent does.