it is divisive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is divisive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that causes disagreement or conflict among people or groups. Example: "The new policy has sparked a lot of debate, as many believe it is divisive and could lead to further division within the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

"The true evil" of the law, he said, "is that it is divisive.

The New York Times

He opposed Quebec's plan to bar civil servants from wearing religious symbols because it is divisive.

The Economist

It is divisive and does nothing to encourage people into scientific discovery.

The Guardian

Occasionally what he does can be seen for what it is: divisive and irresponsible.

The Guardian

The underlying idea here is that the word "class" is, in itself, a weapon of class-warfare, and that any discussion of it is divisive.

The New York Times

I also believe this is one city and that it is not helpful, that it is divisive, to define it as something else, as two cities.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

When the episode came out, it was divisive: some viewers found it overly cynical in its portrait of the mob.

The New Yorker

"It's divisive," he said.

The New York Times

It was divisive; it wasn't nice.

The New Yorker

It was divisive.

The Washington Post

Some people said it was divisive.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "it is divisive" as a standalone criticism. Instead, elaborate on the negative consequences of this division to make your point more persuasive.

Common error

Don't simply state that something "it is divisive" without explaining the division it creates. Failing to provide context weakens your argument and leaves the reader wondering who is divided and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is divisive" functions as a predicative expression, where "it" is a pronoun referring to a subject, "is" is a linking verb, and "divisive" is a predicate adjective describing the subject's quality. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase correctly follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is divisive" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, particularly in News & Media, to describe something that causes disagreement or separation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase adheres to standard grammar rules. While it is suitable for both formal and informal settings, providing context and elaboration strengthens its impact. Alternatives such as "it creates division" or "it is polarizing" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. Effective use involves explaining why something is divisive, thereby enhancing the persuasiveness of your argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it creates division

Focuses on the action of creating separation rather than its state.

it is polarizing

Emphasizes the splitting of opinions into opposing extremes.

it fosters disagreement

Highlights the promotion of differing opinions.

it breeds conflict

Suggests that the phrase causes active clashes or opposition.

it causes friction

Indicates minor conflict and tension.

it sparks controversy

Implies that the issue ignites public debate.

it is contentious

Highlights the potential for argument and dispute.

it engenders discord

Focuses on the creation of a lack of harmony.

it is alienating

Suggests that it causes people to feel isolated or estranged.

it sets people against each other

Highlights direct opposition and conflict.

FAQs

How can I use "it is divisive" in a sentence?

You can use "it is divisive" to describe something that causes disagreement or conflict. For example, "The new policy has sparked a lot of debate, as many believe "it is divisive" and could lead to further division within the community."

What are some alternatives to saying "it is divisive"?

You can use alternatives such as "it creates division", "it is polarizing", or "it fosters disagreement", depending on the context.

Is "it is divisive" a formal or informal expression?

"It is divisive" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though the surrounding language should be adjusted to fit the specific context. It's commonly used in news reporting and academic discussions.

What makes something "divisive"?

Something is "divisive" if it causes people to be split into opposing groups or factions, creating disagreement or conflict. The reasons for division can vary widely, from political issues to social norms.