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

The changes at Lake Powell over the past two decades have come with this duality for many scientists and environmentalists. — Story Hinckley, Christian Science Monitor, 5 Oct. 2026

That cultural duality made her early casting endeavors more challenging than anticipated. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 3 Oct. 2026

Oracular methods such as automatism and tarot cards would lead Colquhoun down many paths in her search for knowledge, while the duality of the androgyne fascinated her in her art and writing. — Marina Warner, The New York Review of Books, 3 Oct. 2026

The former Chicago Bulls superstar had taken on a role as president of the Washington Wizards, and this boardroom-to-hardwood duality played into the sneaker’s two-in-one build. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1532, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for duality

• abnormality
• cardinality
• commonality
• communality
• cordiality
• corporeality
• criminality
• criticality
• functionality
• generality
• geniality
• hospitality