socially divisive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "socially divisive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that creates division or conflict within a society or community. Example: "The new policy was deemed socially divisive, leading to protests and heated debates among citizens."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Opponents of grammar schools claim they are socially divisive, bad for social mobility and disproportionately educate children from better-off families, leaving others to a second-class education.

The Guardian

The only logical solution is to remove the socially divisive separate development regime which the state/private sector division constitutes.

The Guardian

"Was that socially divisive?

The New York Times

It is also socially divisive.

The Guardian

They are socially divisive and educationally corrupt.

The Guardian - Opinion

And it is socially divisive as well".

The Guardian

It is elitist and socially divisive.

The Guardian - Opinion

Our cities are fragmented, poorly designed and socially divisive.

The Guardian

Grammar schools are socially divisive and anti-aspiration.

The Guardian

This budget was economically dangerous and socially divisive.

The Guardian

Findings illuminate that personal practical knowledge plays a role in teacher's curricular-instructional gate keeping in socially divisive contexts.

Teaching and Teacher Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "socially divisive", consider the specific aspect of society being divided. For instance, specify whether it's dividing along political, economic, or cultural lines to provide a clearer understanding of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "socially divisive" without providing context. Instead of saying 'The policy is socially divisive', explain how it divides society and which groups are affected to give the statement more weight and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "socially divisive" functions as an adjective describing something that causes significant disagreement and separation within a society. As Ludwig AI shows, it is frequently used to characterize policies, actions, or issues that lead to societal fragmentation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "socially divisive" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe something that creates division and conflict within a society. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, highlighting its relevance across various domains. When using "socially divisive", it's crucial to provide context and avoid overgeneralizations. Instead of vaguely labeling something as "socially divisive", specify how it divides society and which groups are affected. Alternatives include "polarizing" and "factionalizing", but remember that "socially divisive" carries a distinctly negative connotation, suggesting harm to social cohesion. Therefore, use this phrase thoughtfully, considering the potential impact of the division it describes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divisive to society

This alternative shifts the focus to the broader impact on society, emphasizing the act of causing division.

polarizing in society

This alternative emphasizes the creation of opposing groups or viewpoints within a society.

tending to create social division

This alternative highlights the tendency to cause separation within a social context.

factionalizing

This single word emphasizes the breaking up of a group or society into factions.

creating social fragmentation

This alternative stresses the breaking apart or disintegration of social bonds.

socially fragmenting

This single word, like 'factionalizing', describes the act of breaking social cohesion.

promoting disunity

This alternative focuses on actively encouraging a lack of harmony or agreement within a group.

breeding social conflict

This alternative emphasizes the potential for conflict as a result of the division.

causing social discord

This alternative highlights the disruption of social harmony and agreement.

generating social schism

This alternative describes the creation of a major division or split within a society.

FAQs

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

You can use "socially divisive" to describe policies, actions, or statements that cause significant disagreement and separation within a community or society. For example, "The new law was seen as "socially divisive" because it favored one group over another".

What are some alternatives to "socially divisive"?

Some alternatives include "polarizing", "factionalizing", or "creating social fragmentation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "socially divisive" a negative term?

Yes, "socially divisive" typically carries a negative connotation, implying that something is causing harm by creating rifts within society. However, the impact of these divisions can be debated and justified in certain contexts.

What's the difference between "socially divisive" and "controversial"?

"Controversial" simply means that something generates disagreement. "Socially divisive" goes further, suggesting that the disagreement is so profound that it actively separates and polarizes groups within society. Something can be controversial without being deeply "socially divisive".