polemical
UK: /pəˈlemɪkəl/ | US: /pəˈlemɪkəl/
adj. relating to or involving strongly critical, controversial, or disputatious writing or speech
adj. inclined to argue or debate; contentious
The word polemical traces back to Greek polemikos (warlike), derived from polemos (war). It entered English via Late Latin polemicus and French polémique, originally describing warlike rhetoric before evolving to denote contentious debate. The suffix -ical standardizes it as an adjective, emphasizing its argumentative nature.
The article took a polemical tone, attacking the government’s policies harshly.
Her polemical style made her a feared debater in academic circles.
The book’s polemical approach sparked widespread controversy.
Avoid being overly polemical if you want to persuade neutral audiences.
His speeches were more polemical than constructive, alienating potential allies.