Definition

1. Verb (transitive):

   • To cause to concentrate about two opposing or contrasting positions: To divide people, opinions, or a group into two sharply contrasting sets or factions.
   • To cause (light waves) to vibrate in a definite pattern: In physics, to restrict the vibrations of (light or other electromagnetic radiation) to a single direction or plane.

2. Verb (intransitive):

   • To become polarized in a conflict or contrasting situation: To acquire polarity; to become divided into two opposing groups or sets of opinions.

Usage and Examples

• Transitive verb (causing division):
  • The controversial issue served to polarise public opinion.
  • The leader's rhetoric threatened to polarise the nation.
• Transitive verb (physics):
  • Sunglasses often use special lenses to polarise light, reducing glare.
• Intransitive verb:
  • The political climate began to polarise along ideological lines.
  • The debate is causing the community to polarise into two camps.

Advanced Usage

• "to polarise around": to form opposing groups centered on specific issues or figures.
  • The election caused voters to polarise around the two main candidates.
• In scientific contexts, "polarise" can describe inducing a magnetic or electric dipole moment.
  • The electric field can polarise the dielectric material.

Variants and Related Words

• Polarisation (noun, chiefly British spelling): The process or state of being polarized.
  • The polarisation of society is a growing concern.
• Polarised (adjective): Describing something that has been divided into opposites or has acquired polarity.
  • The country has a deeply polarised electorate.
  • The scientist observed polarised light through the filter.
• Polariser (noun): A device that polarises light.
  • A polariser is an essential component in many optical instruments.

Synonyms

• Divide: To separate into parts or groups.
• Split: To break or cause to break forcibly into parts.
• Separate: To cause to move or be apart.
• Oppose: To set in contrast or be in conflict with.

Antonyms

• Unite: To come or bring together for a common purpose.
• Reconcile: To restore friendly relations between.
• Harmonise: To bring into consonance or accord.

Related Phrases and Contexts

• Polarising figure: A person who causes strong opposing opinions.
  • The politician was a polarising figure, loved by some and hated by others.
• Polarised debate: A discussion characterized by two extreme, opposing viewpoints with little common ground.
  • The discussion turned into a polarised debate with no room for compromise.

Verb

1. become polarized in a conflict or contrasting situation
2. cause to concentrate about two conflicting or contrasting positions
3. cause to vibrate in a definite pattern
   • polarize light waves