divisive
adjective
di·vi·sive
də-ˈvī-siv 
also
-ˈvi-
or -ziv
: creating disunity or dissension
a divisive issue
divisive rhetoric
divisively
adverb
divisiveness
noun
Examples of divisive in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The winners of the Virginia and New Jersey governor’s races ran on a platform of being a little bit less divisive and trying to be more pragmatic.
—
Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 6 Jan. 2026
People are desperately searching for hope and reasons to be positive for the future in such confusing and divisive times.
—Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2026
The limits of solidarity For all its longevity, however, the slogan has proven divisive.
—Kamran Talattof, The Conversation, 6 Jan. 2026
After two divisive sequels, the latest game promises to take us back to the series' roots, letting players control four separate factions across more than 70 campaign missions.
—Alan Bradley, Space.com, 5 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for divisive
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 6 Jan. 2026
People are desperately searching for hope and reasons to be positive for the future in such confusing and divisive times.
—Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 6 Jan. 2026
The limits of solidarity For all its longevity, however, the slogan has proven divisive.
—Kamran Talattof, The Conversation, 6 Jan. 2026
After two divisive sequels, the latest game promises to take us back to the series' roots, letting players control four separate factions across more than 70 campaign missions.
—Alan Bradley, Space.com, 5 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for divisive
Cite this Entry
“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share