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noun Uncommon

duality

doo-A-lih-tee

Duality (noun) means the state of having two parts, often ones that seem opposed to each other. Example: “The novel explores the duality of human nature — kindness and cruelty in the same person.”

noun
1
The state of having two parts, often ones that seem opposed to each other.
"The novel explores the duality of human nature — kindness and cruelty in the same person."
"There's a strange duality to city life: crowded yet lonely."

How to use duality

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHaving two sides or aspects, especially two that contrast with each other.

Common pairings
duality of nature sense of duality

Word forms

dualities plural

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The novel explores the _____ of human nature — kindness and cruelty in the same person.

Etymology

From Latin dualitas, built on dual + the suffix -ity.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for duality

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Frequently asked questions

What does “duality” mean?

The word “duality” means the state of having two parts, often ones that seem opposed to each other. In plain terms, having two sides or aspects, especially two that contrast with each other.

How do you pronounce “duality”?

“Duality” is pronounced doo-A-lih-tee (/d(j)uːˈælɪti/ in IPA).

How do you use “duality” in a sentence?

Here is “duality” used in a sentence: “The novel explores the duality of human nature — kindness and cruelty in the same person.”

What is another word for “duality”?

Words with a similar meaning to “duality” include dichotomy.

What part of speech is “duality”?

“Duality” is a noun.

Where does the word “duality” come from?

The word “duality” comes from Latin. From Latin dualitas, built on dual + the suffix -ity.

Is “duality” a common word?

“Duality” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial