POLARIZING Synonyms: 20 Similar and Opposite Words

polarizing

verb

Definition of polarizing

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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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 However, word-of-mouth is polarizing. — Sophia Morano, Forbes.com, 23 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 Yet the anti-migration nationalist party is as polarizing as ever. — ABC News, 3 July 2026 Initial ticket sales are concerning for the studio because the movie’s polarizing reception, as well as the intense competition during the peak of summer movie season, could limit its theatrical staying power. — Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 28 June 2026 Dolan is a controversial and polarizing owner, having been involved in lawsuits and public feuds with journalists, New York City officials, celebrities and fans. — Holly Yan, CNN Money, 18 June 2026 Populist Abelardo de la Espriella narrowly won a polarizing presidential runoff in Colombia Sunday. — CBS News, 24 June 2026 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. — Giada Zampano, Fortune, 15 June 2026 Keiko Fujimori’s political identity remains inseparable from the legacy of her father, one of the most consequential and polarizing leaders in modern Peruvian history. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 24 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for polarizing

dividing

Verb

The one-time 5% tax on the state’s billionaires has rocked Sacramento in recent months, sharply dividing Democrats and splintering labor coalitions.

— Grace Hase, Mercury News, 26 June 2026
According to Steele, the bankruptcy trustee is now dividing the company’s assets, and the Cooper residents will likely only recover a small amount from the electric company.

— Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 June 2026

Definition of dividing

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polarizes

polarizing

pole

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“Polarizing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/polarizing. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of polarizing

verb

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