a divisive character

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a divisive character" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person who tends to create disagreement or conflict among people. Example: "His comments during the meeting revealed him to be a divisive character, often splitting opinions within the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He is a divisive character.

The Guardian

He was a divisive character.

The Guardian - Music

He is not without merit, but remains a divisive character.

Independent

Mbeki was intellectually gifted but a divisive character.

The New York Times

This will be tough for such a divisive character.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Polonsky is a divisive character renowned for his abrasive style and brash behaviour.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

A source close to Boris Johnson said: "We always knew that Ken was a nasty, divisive character who would fight a dirty campaign but the Labour leader must surely distance himself from these, and similar comments, made in recent times".

Independent

And with Mr. Musharraf last night announcing that he was reconsidering his plan to return to Pakistan by the end of January, it is a reminder that he remains a deeply divisive character.

Huffington Post

BRITAIN'S new chancellor of the exchequer is normally regarded as a rather divisive character.

The Economist

The directive said Ukip's press office should sever all contact with Evans, Ukip's most prominent female politician, after she said Farage was seen by voters as a "very divisive character".

The Guardian

Don Williams of BuddyTV felt that John is a "rather divisive character", with some fans not understanding John's motivation for keeping his sons in the dark.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a divisive character", ensure the context clearly demonstrates how the person causes division or disagreement. Provide specific examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "a divisive character" as a label without explaining why the person is considered divisive. Instead of simply stating the label, elaborate on their actions, opinions, or behaviors that lead to disagreement or conflict.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a divisive character" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or appositive. It characterizes an individual known for causing disagreement or conflict, similar to examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Opinion

12%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Books

6%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a divisive character" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone who causes disagreement or conflict. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its frequent use in News & Media and Opinion contexts. When writing, ensure you provide context to why the person is considered divisive, detailing actions or opinions that lead to the division. While alternatives such as "a polarizing figure" or "a contentious individual" exist, "a divisive character" is a direct and widely understood descriptor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a polarizing figure

Focuses on the creation of opposing viewpoints or camps.

a contentious individual

Emphasizes the person's tendency to cause arguments and disputes.

a controversial personality

Highlights the public disagreement and debate surrounding the person.

a disruptive influence

Focuses on the unsettling and disordering effect the person has.

a source of discord

Points to the person as the origin of disagreement and conflict.

a friction-causing person

Highlights the person's tendency to create friction in relationships or groups.

a trouble maker

Emphasizes the person's involvement in creating problems and conflict.

a figure of contention

Similar to "contentious individual" but emphasizes the person as the subject of disagreement.

a person who sparks debate

Highlights the person's ability to initiate discussion, even if it is heated.

a catalyst for conflict

Focuses on the person's role in triggering disagreements and disputes.

FAQs

How can I use "a divisive character" in a sentence?

You can use "a divisive character" to describe someone who causes disagreement or conflict within a group. For example: "His policies made him "a divisive character" within the political party."

What are some alternatives to saying "a divisive character"?

Alternatives include "a polarizing figure", "a contentious individual", or "a controversial personality", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "divisive person" or "a divisive character"?

Both "divisive person" and "a divisive character" are acceptable. "A divisive character" often implies a more complex or well-defined set of traits that lead to division, while "divisive person" is a more general description.

What's the difference between "a divisive character" and "an unpopular character"?

"A divisive character" actively creates disagreement or conflict, while "an unpopular character" is simply disliked by many people, regardless of whether they cause active division.