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
While there are many benefits to a candidate having an active online presence, such as greater outreach or higher fundraising, the risks of polarizing voters and harming the campaign’s reputation are even greater.
—
David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 23 Mar. 2026
As did ever-polarizing WWE star and influencer Logan Paul, who will play on the opposing team, Wildcats FFC, during the four-game round-robin tournament.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2026
Weiss, founder of the Free Press website and without broadcast news experience before being hired by CBS parent Paramount’s new management, has quickly become a headline-maker and polarizing figure in journalism.
—Dallas Morning News, 20 Mar. 2026
Mac LeBuhn is running on his experience as legal counsel and policy advisor to former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, emphasizing ethics reform and his work with the city under the sometimes-polarizing former mayor.
—Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 23 Mar. 2026
As did ever-polarizing WWE star and influencer Logan Paul, who will play on the opposing team, Wildcats FFC, during the four-game round-robin tournament.
—Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2026
Weiss, founder of the Free Press website and without broadcast news experience before being hired by CBS parent Paramount’s new management, has quickly become a headline-maker and polarizing figure in journalism.
—Dallas Morning News, 20 Mar. 2026
Mac LeBuhn is running on his experience as legal counsel and policy advisor to former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, emphasizing ethics reform and his work with the city under the sometimes-polarizing former mayor.
—Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for polarizing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarizing
dividing
Verb
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The first, a, is obtained by dividing the year number by 19 and calculating the remainder.—
Manon Bischoff,
Scientific American,
4 Apr. 2026
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This was due to the fact that there were so many credible Democrats dividing the 65% to 70% of voters who at least lean left.—
U T Editorial Board,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
3 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Polarizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polarizing. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.
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