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conflicting
/kənˈflɪktɪŋ/
inconsistent or contradictory
The survey results showed conflicting opinions about the new policy.
The opinions were not consistent with each other.
formal
Inconsistent or contradictory in nature or opinion.
The evidence presented in the trial was conflicting, making it hard to reach a verdict.
The evidence contradicted itself.
She received conflicting advice from her doctors about the treatment.
The advice was inconsistent.
Often used to describe opinions, statements, or evidence that cannot coexist logically.
Collocations
conflicting reportsreports that disagree with each otherconflicting interestsinterests that are incompatible or contradictoryconflicting evidenceevidence that contradicts other evidence
Pro Tip
Avoid redundancy
Avoid phrases like 'conflicting opinions' unless necessary. 'Opinions' are often conflicting by nature, so simply saying 'conflicting views' or 'mixed opinions' may suffice.
Gold Rule
Use for logical contradictions
Use 'conflicting' when describing things that logically cannot coexist, such as evidence, statements, or interests. Do not use it for minor disagreements.
Word Origin
From Latin *conflictus*, past participle of *confligere* (to strike together), combining *con-* (together) + *fligere* (to strike). Entered English in the 17th century with the sense of 'clashing' or 'opposing'.
Usage Notes
Used to describe situations where two or more things cannot coexist logically or where opinions or statements disagree. Common in legal, academic, and journalistic contexts.
Word Breakdown
con-
together or with
prefixflict-
to strike
root-ing
forming an adjective from a verb
suffixEnglish Dictionary