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
For example, 18% of Michigan communities statewide reported this year that civic discourse among residents was somewhat or very divisive, up from 11% in 2012.
—
Stephanie Leiser, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025
That article detailed how physical trainer Antonio Pintus had become a divisive figure behind the scenes, with some of his approaches considered to be old-fashioned.
—Mario Cortegana, New York Times, 17 Dec. 2025
Those on the other side of the room said that the club and Andreatta’s remarks have created a divisive school environment that has left students, particularly those in the LGBTQ community, feeling unsafe.
—Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 17 Dec. 2025
Many of the proposals, particularly those that involve reorganizing NASA’s workforce and changing some of its approach to scientific research, are divisive.
—Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 17 Dec. 2025
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.
Stephanie Leiser, The Conversation, 19 Dec. 2025
That article detailed how physical trainer Antonio Pintus had become a divisive figure behind the scenes, with some of his approaches considered to be old-fashioned.
—Mario Cortegana, New York Times, 17 Dec. 2025
Those on the other side of the room said that the club and Andreatta’s remarks have created a divisive school environment that has left students, particularly those in the LGBTQ community, feeling unsafe.
—Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 17 Dec. 2025
Many of the proposals, particularly those that involve reorganizing NASA’s workforce and changing some of its approach to scientific research, are divisive.
—Jackie Wattles, CNN Money, 17 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for divisive
Cite this Entry
“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 27 Dec. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share