POLARIZING Synonyms: 20 Similar and Opposite Words

polarizing

verb

Definition of polarizing next

present participle of polarize

as in dividing

to cause (people) to break up into opposing groups A hot button issue that is sure to polarize the public.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of polarizing Vannacci’s rise comes as far-right and nationalist parties gain ground across Europe, reshaping the political landscape and focusing on polarizing issues like migration and security. —

ABC News, 14 June 2026 Soccer can be polarizing, as evidenced by 25% having no interest. —

Greg Cote june 12, Miami Herald, 12 June 2026 America has a long history of polarizing criminal cases defined by the racial dynamics at play. —

Jack Crosbie, Rolling Stone, 12 June 2026 The shirts were polarizing, however, with some fans confused about Swift's attendance. —

Marina Watts, Entertainment Weekly, 11 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for polarizing

Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarizing

dividing

Verb

The United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17 that sets up negotiations over the most contentious issues dividing the two sides.

— Stephen J. Beard, USA Today, 18 June 2026
But any time a cell is not actively dividing, its chromatin is unwound into what looks like a tangled mess.

— Philip Ball, Quanta Magazine, 18 June 2026