divisive
UK: dɪˈvaɪ.sɪv | US: dɪˈvaɪ.sɪv
adj. causing disagreement or hostility between people
adj. tending to divide or create separation
divisive = divis<divide> + ive<adjective suffix>
- divis (from Latin divisus, past participle of dividere "to divide")
- ive (suffix forming adjectives, from Latin -ivus, indicating tendency or capacity)
Etymology Origin:
The word divisive originates from the Latin dividere ("to divide"), combined with the adjectival suffix -ive. It entered English in the early 17th century, initially describing things that cause division or separation. Over time, it became strongly associated with social or political contexts, emphasizing actions or rhetoric that create discord. The morpheme divis- preserves the core idea of splitting, while -ive gives it an adjective form, making it a precise descriptor for conflict-inducing behavior.
The politician's speech was criticized for being overly divisive.
Social media can amplify divisive opinions.
The new policy proved divisive among employees.
Avoid divisive language when discussing sensitive topics.
The debate became increasingly divisive as tensions rose.