as in dividing
to cause (people) to break up into opposing groups
A hot button issue that is sure to polarize the public.
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Recent Examples of polarizing
This one might be polarizing, however, Simmons isn’t shy about singing the praises of a certain salty, savory, somewhat funky spread that’s especially popular across the pond.
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Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Jan. 2026
And in the Maldives, discontent over corruption, democratic backsliding, and polarizing foreign entanglements have led to similar protests demanding political change.
—Muhib Rahman, Foreign Affairs, 12 Nov. 2025
As a whole, Kennedy’s doc, which is seeking distribution, is a raw behind-the-scenes look at a polarizing public figure who often hides behind wrath or self-deprecation.
—Addie Morfoot, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025
Unilever has previously said the board has evolved into advocacy for controversial and polarizing topics such as the war in Gaza, a change driven by Mittal.
—Reuters 18 Hr Ago, CNN Money, 6 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Jan. 2026
And in the Maldives, discontent over corruption, democratic backsliding, and polarizing foreign entanglements have led to similar protests demanding political change.
—Muhib Rahman, Foreign Affairs, 12 Nov. 2025
As a whole, Kennedy’s doc, which is seeking distribution, is a raw behind-the-scenes look at a polarizing public figure who often hides behind wrath or self-deprecation.
—Addie Morfoot, Variety, 10 Nov. 2025
Unilever has previously said the board has evolved into advocacy for controversial and polarizing topics such as the war in Gaza, a change driven by Mittal.
—Reuters 18 Hr Ago, CNN Money, 6 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarizing
dividing
Verb
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The singer's annual holiday clip is dividing fans this year.—
Allison DeGrushe,
Entertainment Weekly,
7 Nov. 2025
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Similar efforts have emerged in Missouri, where the state legislature passed a new map dividing Kansas City among three congressional districts.—
Martha McHardy,
MSNBC Newsweek,
5 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Polarizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polarizing. Accessed 10 Jan. 2026.
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