divisive
Divisive (adj) means tending to cause disagreement or split opinion between people. Example: “It was one of the most divisive issues in the election campaign.”
How to use divisive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that pulls people into opposing camps rather than bringing them together.
Word forms
more divisive comparative, most divisive superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was one of the most _____ issues in the election campaign.
Etymology
Borrowed from Latin dīvīsīvus, itself from dīvidō, "to divide".
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for divisive
See all rhymes for divisive →Frequently asked questions
What does “divisive” mean?
The word “divisive” means tending to cause disagreement or split opinion between people. In plain terms, something that pulls people into opposing camps rather than bringing them together.
How do you pronounce “divisive”?
“Divisive” is pronounced dih-VEYE-sihv (/dɪˈvaɪsɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “divisive” in a sentence?
Here is “divisive” used in a sentence: “It was one of the most divisive issues in the election campaign.”
What is the opposite of “divisive”?
The opposite of “divisive” — its antonyms — are combinative and agglomerative.
What part of speech is “divisive”?
“Divisive” is an adjective.
Where does the word “divisive” come from?
The word “divisive” comes from Latin. Borrowed from Latin dīvīsīvus, itself from dīvidō, "to divide".
Is “divisive” a common word?
“Divisive” is an uncommon word in modern English.