divisive tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "divisive tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a manner of speaking or writing that creates division or disagreement among people. Example: "The politician's speech was criticized for its divisive tone, which alienated many voters."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Government critics condemned the divisive tone of Orbán's campaign.

The Guardian

The advertisement certainly contributed to the campaign's divisive tone.

The New York Times

Corbyn's equivalent, "For the many, not the few", strikes a jarring, perhaps more divisive tone.

The Guardian

And the man who defeated Senator Gore eventually apologized for the divisive tone of the campaign.

The New York Times

In April, Mr. Ishihara set a divisive tone for the exercise while addressing members of the army.

The New York Times

"But we are going to hold the parties accountable if they address immigration in a divisive tone or use Latinos as scapegoats".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Theres a very divisive political tone right now, and I think editorial cartoonists are right on the razors edge of that, he said.

The New York Times

As part of that endeavor, Mr. Bush's aides accused Democrats and the Gore campaign of adopting a divisive, negative tone that bespoke desperation.

The New York Times

The "divisive, polarizing tone of your rhetoric is cleaving a widening gulf," Mr. Cooperman continued, "between the downtrodden and those best positioned to help them" — meaning, apparently, hedge fund managers like himself.

The New York Times

"The divisive, polarizing tone of your rhetoric is cleaving a widening gulf, at this point as much visceral as philosophical, between the downtrodden and those best positioned to help them," Cooperman wrote.

The New Yorker

Last week, in a widely circulated "open letter" to President Obama that whizzed around e-mail inboxes of Wall Street and corporate America, Mr. Cooperman argued that "the divisive, polarizing tone of your rhetoric is cleaving a widening gulf, at this point as much visceral as philosophical, between the downtrodden and those best positioned to help them".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing communication, be specific about how the "divisive tone" is created. Is it through loaded language, biased framing, or personal attacks? Details strengthen your analysis.

Common error

Avoid simply labeling something as having a "divisive tone" without explaining why it is divisive. Provide specific examples of the language or actions that create the division to make your point more persuasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "divisive tone" functions as a descriptive term, typically used to characterize the manner of communication or rhetoric. It highlights the quality of creating disagreement or separation among people, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "divisive tone" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe communication that creates disagreement and separation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used in news and media to critique or analyze language that fosters polarization. While generally carrying a negative connotation, the phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to pinpoint the specific quality of communication that leads to division. To avoid misuse, it's crucial to provide context and specific examples when using the phrase, ensuring clarity and persuasiveness in your analysis. Alternatives like "polarizing rhetoric" or "inflammatory language" can offer nuanced perspectives, depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divisive language

Highlights that language causes the division, shifting the focus slightly from the tone.

polarizing rhetoric

Focuses on the rhetoric aspect, emphasizing the use of language that divides.

polarizing effect

Focuses on the consequence of the tone – creating opposing groups.

inflammatory language

Highlights the use of language that provokes strong emotions, potentially leading to division.

contentious atmosphere

Shifts the focus from the tone itself to the overall environment of disagreement.

discordant note

Emphasizes a lack of harmony or agreement, creating a sense of division.

atmosphere of conflict

Suggests the tone creates a context of permanent arguments and discord.

fractious environment

Similar to 'contentious atmosphere' but suggests a more unstable and easily disrupted environment.

antagonistic approach

Emphasizes the aggressive nature of the communication style that causes division.

schismatic viewpoint

Highlights the division into different groups or factions caused by a specific viewpoint.

FAQs

How can I describe something similar to a "divisive tone"?

You could use phrases like "polarizing rhetoric", "inflammatory language", or "contentious atmosphere" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

What's the difference between "divisive tone" and "aggressive tone"?

While both describe negative communication styles, "divisive tone" specifically refers to language that creates disagreement and separation, whereas "aggressive tone" describes language that is forceful and confrontational. An aggressive tone may or may not be divisive.

Is it always negative to have a "divisive tone"?

In most contexts, yes, a "divisive tone" is viewed negatively as it suggests communication that creates conflict. However, in some cases, it might be used intentionally to challenge the status quo or raise awareness about important issues.

How can I avoid using a "divisive tone" in my writing?

Focus on using neutral language, presenting multiple perspectives, and avoiding generalizations or stereotypes. Emphasize common ground and shared goals to foster understanding rather than division.