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Polarised

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. Divided into two opposing or contrasting groups, opinions, or ideologies, often leading to conflict.
2. In physics, refers to light or other electromagnetic waves that are made to oscillate in a specific direction.
3. Describing a situation or issue where the views or positions are sharply opposed.
4. Pertaining to a state of being polarized, either in a physical, social, or political sense.

History and Origin

The term “polarised” comes from the Latin polaris, meaning “of or relating to the poles.” It was first used in the context of light waves in the 19th century to describe waves that vibrate in a particular direction. The usage of “polarised” to describe social, political, or ideological divisions developed later as the term came to represent extreme oppositions or conflicts. The British English spelling “polarised” is used in contrast to the American “polarized.”

Detailed Explanation

“Polarised” refers to both scientific and social contexts where opposing forces or groups exist in a state of sharp contrast. In scientific terms, it is used to describe waves, especially light, that oscillate in a specific plane or direction. In social or political contexts, “polarised” refers to a situation where opinions, ideologies, or attitudes have become extremely divided, leaving little or no middle ground between opposing sides. This division often leads to heightened conflict or difficulty in reaching consensus.

Example Sentences

1. The country has become increasingly polarised, with citizens holding deeply opposing views.
2. The media’s portrayal of the issue has further polarised the public opinion.
3. After the debate, the political landscape became polarised, with two strong factions emerging.
4. The conflict polarised the community, making it harder for people to work together.
5. The scientist used a polarised filter to examine the properties of light.
6. The ideological divide has polarised the discussions in the forum.
7. The polarised situation made it difficult to find a solution that satisfied both parties.
8. The social media platform has contributed to the polarisation of users by promoting extreme views.
9. The issue has polarised the nation, with people firmly entrenched in their beliefs.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Divided – Split into distinct, opposing groups or viewpoints.
2. Contrasted – Showing differences or opposition, often resulting in a polarised view.
3. Partisan – Strongly biased or committed to one side of an issue, often intensifying polarization.
4. Fragmented – Broken into smaller, often conflicting parts or segments.
5. Bipolar – Having two opposing extremes or poles, often used to describe polarized views.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Disagreement – A lack of consensus, often leading to or resulting from polarization.
2. Conflict – A serious disagreement, often a result of polarized positions.
3. Radicalization – The process by which a person or group adopts extreme views, intensifying polarization.
4. Division – The act of separating or creating gaps between differing opinions or groups.
5. Extremism – Holding or advocating for extreme political or social views, often contributing to polarization.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Antagonism – Open hostility or opposition, often a result of polarised views.
2. Schism – A division or split in an organization or group, typically caused by polarized opinions.
3. Tension – Strain or conflict, often arising from polarized differences.
4. Divergence – The process or state of moving away from a common point, often leading to polarization.
5. Exclusivity – The state of being excluded or separated due to opposing ideologies or views, a form of polarization.

Antonyms

1. Unified
2. Harmonious
3. Balanced
4. Neutral
5. Congruent