politicize
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /pəˈlɪtɪˌzaɪz/
KK: /pəˈlɪtɪˌsaɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To take part in political discussions or activities.
Example
During the election season, many people tend to politicize everyday issues.
Tense Forms
Past: politicized
Past Participle: politicized
Conversation
Did you notice how people tend to politicize every little issue these days?
Yeah, it's like everything has to be about politics now.
I just wish we could talk about things without making them so political.
Same here! Sometimes it's nice to just enjoy a conversation without the drama.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
debate
discuss
campaign
Antonyms
ignore
neglect
abstain
transitive verb
Definition
To make something political or to give it a political character or significance.
Example
The new law was seen as an attempt to politicize the education system.
Tense Forms
Past: politicized
Past Participle: politicized
Conversation
Did you hear how they tried to politicize the charity event?
Yeah, it was surprising to see that happen.
I thought charities were supposed to be neutral, not political.
Root Explanation
Politicize → It is formed from "politic" (from Latin "politicus", meaning of or relating to citizens or the state) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "politicize" means to make something political or to give it a political character.
Memory Tip
Think of making something related to citizens or the state ('politic') — that's why politicize means to make it political.
Visually Confused Words
poeticize
positivize
plasticize