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

This duality and sense of introspection merges to create artworks that invite the viewer to reflect on their own perceptions of identity and experience. —Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025

Much of Catlett’s art focused on the duality of her two experiences, but nothing embodied such quite like the beautiful sculpture titled Naima: My Granddaughter, which was first completed in 1998. —Okla Jones, Essence, 23 Mar. 2025

Matthew Murphy The musical Buena Vista Social Club, inspired by the story of the Cuban supergroup and its best-selling 1997 Latin music album, is a feast of cultural dualities. —Juan A. Ramírez, Vogue, 18 Mar. 2025

The pressure of this duality is evident in Mr. Milchick’s and Natalie’s characters. —Banseka Kayembe, refinery29.com, 17 Mar. 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