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Definitions

divisiveness

[dih-vahy-siv-nis] / dɪˈvaɪ sɪv nɪs /
NOUN
disagreement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
animosity antagonism argument bickering clash conflict controversy debate difference discord dissent disunity division feud fight friction hostility misunderstanding opposition spat split squabble strife tension wrangle
STRONG
altercation atmospherics breach break contention contest cross-purposes dissidence disunion hassle rupture variance vendetta words
WEAK
clashing falling out ill feeling ill will jarring
Antonyms
STRONGEST
accord agreement concord concurrence friendship harmony juncture peace understanding
WEAK
acquiescence likeness sameness similarity
NOUN
faction
Synonyms
STRONG
disagreement discord disharmony dissension disunity division friction quarrelsomeness rebellion sedition tumult turbulence
WEAK
infighting
Antonyms
STRONG
accord agreement calm calmness harmony peace
WEAK
conformity entirety total unity whole

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I don’t see Carol as representing arguing for anger and divisiveness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 24, 2025

“We need to put aside divisiveness and focus on the real issues facing us today.”

From Slate • Jan. 24, 2025

It remains a story of understanding and togetherness despite social power structures that depend on fear and divisiveness.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 19, 2024

The divisiveness is pretty upsetting because I don't see the end of it.

From BBC • Oct. 9, 2024

They continued celebrating in a festive spirit and singing that the people united would never be defeated—even though each time they sang, it sounded more out of tune because divisiveness and hatred were inexorably growing.

From "The House of the Spirits: A Novel" by Isabel Allende