conflict / rift
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inner conflict
A state of inner indecision or conflict in which a person is torn between two contradictory feelings, wishes, or duties.
Sie befand sich in einem tiefen Zwiespalt zwischen ihrer Loyalität zum Freund und ihrer Pflicht, die Wahrheit zu sagen.
She found herself in a deep inner conflict between her loyalty to her friend and her duty to tell the truth.
rift
A serious difference of opinion or disagreement between people or groups.
Der tiefe Zwiespalt zwischen den Gründungsmitgliedern führte schließlich zur Auflösung des Vereins.
The deep rift between the founding members eventually led to the dissolution of the association.
The word consists of 'zwie-', an old form meaning 'zwei' (two), and 'Spalt' (split), meaning 'Riss' (crack) or 'Trennung' (separation). A 'Zwiespalt' (conflict/rift) is therefore literally a crack that splits someone or something into two parts.
Der innere Zwiespalt machte ihm das Leben schwer.
The inner conflict made life difficult for him.
'Zwiespalt' (conflict/rift) belongs to a more elevated or written style of language. It sounds more formal and reflective.
In seinem Brief beschrieb er den tiefen Zwiespalt seiner Gefühle.
In his letter, he described the deep conflict in his feelings.
When referring to an inner conflict, 'Zwiespalt' (inner conflict) is often used with the verbs 'sein' (to be), 'stecken' (to be stuck), or 'sich befinden' (to find oneself). The preposition is almost always 'in' (in).
Ich stecke in einem Zwiespalt und weiß nicht, was ich tun soll.
I am stuck in an inner conflict and don't know what I should do.
You can recognize this meaning from the fact that the conflict takes place between different people or groups. The structure 'Zwiespalt zwischen A und B' (rift between A and B) is often used.
Der Zwiespalt zwischen den beiden Abteilungen lähmte die ganze Firma.
The rift between the two departments paralyzed the whole company.
conflict
An inner conflict and a Zwiespalt can both mean that someone has incompatible wishes or feelings. Konflikt is the more general term. Zwiespalt places particular emphasis on being internally divided between alternatives. When being torn between options is the main focus, Zwiespalt is especially appropriate.
Zwischen dem Wunsch nach Sicherheit und der Lust auf Veränderung steckt sie in einem tiefen Zwiespalt.
She is caught in a deep inner conflict between the desire for security and the urge for change.
Der Wunsch nach Sicherheit und die Lust auf Veränderung lösen in ihr einen inneren Konflikt aus.
The desire for security and the urge for change create an inner conflict in her.
