Word

polarization

noun C1

/ˌpoʊlərɪˈzeɪʃən/

Meanings

noun

the process by which opinions or groups become divided into two strongly opposing sides

noun

a growing separation in attitudes that reduces agreement and encourages extreme positions

Definition

Polarization is the process in which people, groups, or opinions split into strongly opposed sides.

Polarization happens when views or identities move further apart and the middle ground becomes less influential. It often involves stronger emotions, less willingness to compromise, and more distrust between sides. The term is commonly used in politics, workplaces, online communities, and social debates.

Examples

I worry that polarization is making even routine policy discussions feel like personal battles.
You can see polarization in the way online threads quickly split into hostile camps instead of careful debate.
He argued that polarization rises when leaders reward outrage more than nuance.
She studies polarization in workplaces where teams stop sharing information across departments.
They tried to reduce polarization by creating mixed groups that had to solve practical problems together.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse polarization with discrimination, but polarization is about division into opposing sides rather than unequal treatment.