polarized
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈpoʊləraɪzd/
KK: /ˈpoʊlərˌaɪzd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a situation or group that is divided into two or more opposing sides or extremes.
Example
The debate on climate change has become increasingly polarized, with strong opinions on both sides.
Conversation
Did you notice how the opinions on that topic are so polarized?
Yeah, it seems like people are either really for it or completely against it.
It's hard to find a middle ground with such polarized views.
Absolutely! It makes discussions really tricky sometimes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
divided
separated
contrasted
Antonyms
unified
harmonious
integrated
verb
Definition
To cause something to have distinct and opposite positions or opinions.
Example
The debate polarized the community, dividing people into two opposing groups.
Tense Forms
Past: polarized
Past Participle: polarized
Conversation
Did you see how the discussion polarized everyone at the meeting yesterday?
Yeah, it was pretty intense!
I didn't expect such strong opinions to come out and polarize the group like that.
Root Explanation
Polarized → It is formed from "polar" (from Latin *polaris*, meaning of the poles) and "-ized" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating a process). The word "polarized" means to cause something to have distinct poles or to become divided into opposing groups.
Memory Tip
Think of something being divided into two distinct 'poles' — that's what polarized means.
Visually Confused Words
unpolarized
poulardize
popularize
dipolarize
depolarize
bipolarize
solarize
poplared