love-hate relationship

Definition:

A “love-hate relationship” refers to an interpersonal dynamic where feelings of love and hate coexist. This relationship can be characterized by a mix of admiration and frustration, or by alternating emotions of affection and animosity.

Origin of the Idiom

The phrase “love-hate relationship” is believed to have originated in psychology and literature. It was initially used to describe emotional ambivalence, a psychological state where conflicting emotions toward the same person or object coexist.

Over time, the phrase entered common usage, transcending its clinical origins to describe complex interpersonal relationships.

Similar Phrases or Expressions

Here are some phrases and expressions with similar meanings or connotations:

1. Bitter-sweet relationship – A connection that is both pleasant and painful.
   • Example: Moving to a new city gave her a bitter-sweet relationship with her hometown.
2. Can’t live with them, can’t live without them – A humorous way of describing a love-hate dynamic.
   • Example: My brother and I fight all the time, but I’d be lost without him—can’t live with him, can’t live without him.
3. Mixed feelings – Conflicted emotions toward someone or something.
   • Example: I have mixed feelings about my new job—it’s exciting but also stressful.
4. A roller-coaster relationship – A relationship with frequent ups and downs.
   • Example: Their roller-coaster relationship exhausted everyone around them.
5. Hot and cold – A term used to describe inconsistent behavior or emotions.
   • Example: He runs hot and cold with his friends—one day he’s supportive, the next he’s distant.
6. Push and pull dynamic – A relationship characterized by alternating closeness and distance.
   • Example: Their push-and-pull dynamic made it hard for them to have a stable relationship.

Examples of “Love-Hate Relationship” in Sentences

1. He has a love-hate relationship with his job—he appreciates the challenges but despises the long hours.
2. Nancy has a love-hate relationship with her sister; they argue often but are inseparable at heart.
3. Artists often have a love-hate relationship with their craft, torn between passion and frustration.
4. Jane described her relationship with social media as a love-hate one—she enjoys staying connected but dislikes the constant distractions.
5. Many people have a love-hate relationship with fast food—it’s convenient but not always healthy.