Word
divisive
Phoneticsdi·vi·sive, stress on the second syllable
US/dɪˈvaɪsɪv/
UK/dɪvˈaɪsɪv/
Definition
adj. describing something that causes people to argue or disagree strongly. It splits a group into two sides that do not like each other.
adj. causing or tending to cause disagreement or hostility between people. Often describes topics, policies, or figures that polarise public opinion.
Examples
“The new law is very divisive among local voters.”
“The politician's divisive comments about immigration led to heated protests and counter-protests across the city.”
“The proposed redevelopment of the historic district proved highly divisive, pitting preservationists against developers in a bitter legal battle that lasted for several years.”
Examples
simple
“The new law is very divisive among local voters.”
contextual
“The politician's divisive comments about immigration led to heated protests and counter-protests across the city.”
complex
“The proposed redevelopment of the historic district proved highly divisive, pitting preservationists against developers in a bitter legal battle that lasted for several years.”
Usage
Often used with 'highly', 'deeply', or 'extremely'. Typically precedes the noun it modifies or follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'become'.
Real-World Examples
“A British and Irish Jewish group criticised the Israeli prime minister’s comments as hateful and divisive.” “Plans to ban foreign nationals from social housing under a Conservative government have been condemned as “divisive”.” Etymology
Borrowed from Latin dīvīsīvus.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Grade 1
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/divisive