divisive language

[dɪˈvaɪsɪv ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ]
noun phrasepl: divisive language (uncountable) / instances of divisive language
linguagem divisiva
1. Speech or communication that deliberately creates or emphasizes disagreement, conflict, or separation between groups of people
The politician's divisive language alienated many voters from different backgrounds.
A linguagem divisiva do político afastou muitos eleitores de diferentes origens.
2. Words or phrases designed to inflame tensions or create an 'us versus them' mentality
Media outlets should avoid divisive language that stereotypes entire communities.
Os meios de comunicação devem evitar linguagem divisiva que estereotipa comunidades inteiras.
3. Communication that highlights differences in a way that promotes hostility rather than understanding
Teachers are trained to recognize and counter divisive language in classroom discussions.
Professores são treinados para reconhecer e combater linguagem divisiva em discussões em sala de aula.
In Brazilian and American political discourse, 'divisive language' has become increasingly prominent in discussions about social polarization, particularly regarding racial, religious, and political divisions. In Brazil, the term gained significant usage during recent political campaigns. In the USA, it is frequently used in media criticism and political commentary, especially in debates about immigration, race relations, and partisan politics. The phrase reflects growing awareness of how language shapes social cohesion and national unity.
NYC Slang
hate speech / trash talk that separates people
Synonyms / Sinônimos
polarizing languageinflammatory speechincendiary rhetoricseparatist discourseantagonistic language
Antonyms / Antônimos
unifying languageinclusive languageconciliatory speechbridge-building rhetoriccommon ground language

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
linguagem divisiva
Standard term used in media, politics, and education
Rio de Janeiro
fala que divide
More colloquial variant sometimes used in informal contexts
São Paulo
linguagem divisiva / discurso divisor
Formal usage in business and academic settings
Portugal
linguagem divisiva / discurso divisório
European Portuguese variant; 'divisório' more common in formal contexts

Related Words

polarizationrhetoricdiscoursesectarianantagonismethnic tensionssocial divisionprejudice

Related Idioms & Phrases

to draw a line in the sand
to drive a wedge between
to stoke the flames
to pit people against each other
us versus them mentality
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