divisive role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "divisive role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a position or function that causes division or disagreement among people or groups. Example: "The politician played a divisive role in the debate, leading to heated arguments among the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But this show mainly demonstrates the decisive — until it was divisive — role of doctrinaire organizations.

The New Yorker

I am sad that race still plays such a divisive role in America.

The Guardian - Opinion

"And my own had always taught me that nationality or religion should play no divisive role.

The New York Times

Not much of a recommendation, or given what some see as theatre's divisive role, perhaps it is?

The Guardian

Iran could have a positive role across the region; it has played a sectarian, divisive role in the past.

The Guardian

In promoting Bevan, Balls acknowledges his divisive role in Labour's locust years of the Bevanite-Gaitskell split of the 1950s.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

In glioblastomas, both Bmi-1 and EZH2 have divisive roles: knockdown of EZH2 protein levels diminished the self-renewal ability and the tumor-initiating capacity of cancer stem cells, whereas a microRNA-mediated downregulation of Bmi-1 levels in glioblastomas inhibited the proliferation and reduced self-renewal of the glioma stem cells.

Cell Death and Disease

Until now, economic self-interest has tended to trump outrage over the divisive Russian role in Ukraine.

The Guardian

The issue has not received as much publicity as controversies like abortion coverage or the insurance excise tax, but it could prove just as divisive: what role should the states play in overseeing the overhaul of the health insurance market?

The New York Times - Health

Progress under these conditions requires that, for children to be raised in an equal opportunity and education environment, the discriminatory and divisive gender role position patterns must be changed.

Unicef

He is a divisive character.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "divisive role" with a more specific term if the nature of the division is well-defined, for example, "polarizing influence" or "contentious position".

Common error

Avoid using "divisive role" when the situation involves only minor disagreements. Overstating the level of conflict can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divisive role" functions as a noun phrase, where 'divisive' modifies 'role', indicating the quality of causing disagreement or separation. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage, evident in various real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "divisive role" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to describe something that causes disagreement or separation. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Scientific sources. While it generally carries negative connotations, it is a clear and effective way to highlight the contentious nature of a subject. To enhance clarity, ensure the context specifies what is being divided and consider using more specific alternatives like "polarizing influence" or "contentious position" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Divisive influence

Emphasizes the impact on creating division.

Point of contention

Emphasizes that the role is a specific issue of disagreement.

Polarizing function

Focuses on the effect of creating opposing viewpoints.

Source of conflict

Points to the origin of disagreements and disputes.

Contentious position

Highlights the controversial nature of the role.

Cause of dissension

Focuses on the creation of disagreement and conflict within a group.

Fractious part

Indicates involvement in creating discord and disagreement.

Bone of contention

Highlights the persistent and irritating nature of the disagreement.

Discordant effect

Stresses the lack of harmony or agreement caused.

Disruptive factor

Highlights the element of interruption and disturbance caused.

FAQs

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

You can use "divisive role" to describe a person, policy, or event that causes significant disagreement or separation within a group or society. For example, "The politician played a divisive role in the debate".

What can I say instead of "divisive role"?

You can use alternatives like "polarizing function", "contentious position", or "divisive influence", depending on the context.

Is "divisive role" a negative term?

Yes, "divisive role" generally has negative connotations because it implies the creation of conflict and separation. However, in some contexts, highlighting a divisive issue can be necessary to address underlying problems.

What is the difference between "divisive role" and "catalytic role"?

"Divisive role" implies creating separation and disagreement, while "catalytic role" implies initiating change or action. While a catalyst can sometimes lead to division, its primary function is to spark progress, not necessarily conflict.