divisive
adjective
di·vi·sive
də-ˈvī-siv 
also
-ˈvi-
or -ziv
: creating disunity or dissension
a divisive issue
divisive rhetoric
divisively
adverb
divisiveness
noun
Examples of divisive in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Upon its announcement, the title — a line from a John Cheever short story — became divisive online.
—
Ilana Kaplan, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025
Escape one of the most divisive times in this country’s history to what’s widely considered one of the best TV dramas of all time.
—Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025
Given the divisive nature of our politics, a shutdown could deal a further blow to trust or could boost it.
—Hugh Cameron, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025
An example might be deciding whether to take a public stance on a divisive issue.
—Sally Percy, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for divisive
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Ilana Kaplan, People.com, 19 Mar. 2025
Escape one of the most divisive times in this country’s history to what’s widely considered one of the best TV dramas of all time.
—Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025
Given the divisive nature of our politics, a shutdown could deal a further blow to trust or could boost it.
—Hugh Cameron, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025
An example might be deciding whether to take a public stance on a divisive issue.
—Sally Percy, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for divisive
Cite this Entry
“Divisive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divisive. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share