polarization
5 synonyms and 3 antonyms for polarization, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The process by which a group, especially a country's electorate, splits into two opposed camps with fewer and fewer people holding middle-ground views.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
The process by which a group, especially a country's electorate, splits into two opposed camps with fewer and fewer people holding middle-ground views.
“Polarization has made it harder to pass any bill with cross-party support.”
Opposites
2. noun
In physics, the restriction of the vibrations of a light or other transverse wave to a single plane or direction.
“Sunglasses reduce glare by filtering out light of one polarization.”
How to Use Polarization
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral; the political sense is the one now dominant in news writing. British English usually spells it polarisation.
Etymology
From polar, via Latin polaris, from Greek polos 'axis, pole'. The verb polarize adds the verb-forming suffix -ize, and -ation then turns that verb into a noun.
Full origin of polarization →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between polarization and radicalisation?
Polarization describes a whole population pulling apart into two opposed blocs, with the centre emptying out. Radicalisation describes individuals moving towards extreme positions, often including support for violence. A society can polarise without anyone becoming radical.
What is affective polarization?
Affective polarization is dislike and distrust of the other side as people, rather than disagreement about policy. Researchers measure it by asking how comfortable someone would be with a neighbour, colleague or in-law from the opposing party.
How does polarization work in sunglasses?
Light bouncing off roads and water vibrates mostly in one horizontal plane. A polarising filter passes only vertically vibrating light, so most of that reflected glare is blocked while the rest of the scene comes through.