polarize — to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpoʊləˌraɪz/
Example Sentences
- The pizza pineapple debate completely polarized our friend group into Team Sweet and Team Savory.
- Social media algorithms tend to polarize users by showing them only similar viewpoints.
- The new school uniform policy polarized parents faster than a magnet attracts metal.
polarize
VERB[/ˈpoʊləˌraɪz/]
to divide into two sharply contrasting groups or sets of opinions or beliefs
The controversial issue polarized the community into two opposing groups.
The speech polarized the audience instead of bringing them together. (🧲 Two Poles + ↔️ Split Apart → Polarize)
The issue polarized the group until they realized the need for compromise.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From French 'polariser', derived from 'polaire' (polar), which comes from Latin 'polaris' meaning 'of the poles'. The term originally referred to the physical property of light being separated into two opposite states, and was later extended metaphorically to mean dividing into opposing groups.
Breakdown
polar- (relating to poles) + -ize (verb suffix meaning 'to make or become') = polarize
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The pizza pineapple debate completely polarized our friend group into Team Sweet and Team Savory.”
“Social media algorithms tend to polarize users by showing them only similar viewpoints.”
“The new school uniform policy polarized parents faster than a magnet attracts metal.”
“Climate change discussions often polarize communities along political lines.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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