Synonyms of polarize

polarize

verb

ˈpō-lə-ˌrīz 

as in to divide

to cause (people) to break up into opposing groups

A hot button issue that is sure to polarize the public.

Synonyms & Similar Words

• divide
• split
• splinter
• separate
• alienate
• fragment
• antagonize
• estrange
• fracture
• embitter
• disaffect
• disgruntle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• unite
• unify
• reconcile
• coalesce
• harmonize
• concentrate
• consolidate
• conciliate

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of polarize

Critics have been polarized by the museum, with many in the film trade singing its praises while others in the art world have panned it. — Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Today’s media landscape has become far more saturated and polarized, as well as faster paced, in the decades since Grossman was a reporter. — Nick Holdstock, The Dial, 8 Sep. 2026

In the last 25 years, the American electorate has become more polarized, distrustful, and apathetic. — Michael E. Neagle, Hartford Courant, 8 Sep. 2026

Ben’s view Analysis of China is often so polarized that a casual observer might get the impression that Beijing is both an unstoppable force on the verge of global domination and a precarious dictatorship on the brink of collapse. — Ben Bland, semafor.com, 1 Sep. 2026