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Wordabulary

cognitive dissonance

Pronunciation
Noun B1 Intermediate

Quick answer

The uncomfortable mental tension that comes from holding two contradictory beliefs or acting against one's own beliefs.

"He felt a flash of cognitive dissonance buying products from a company whose values he opposed."

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "He felt a flash of _____ buying products from a company whose values he opposed."

Answer: cognitive dissonance

In your own words, what does "cognitive dissonance" mean?

The uncomfortable mental tension that comes from holding two contradictory beliefs or acting against one's own beliefs.

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