Polemic
/pəˈlɛmɪk/
nounadjectiveC1
Definition
A polemic is a strong and often aggressive argument against someone’s opinion or belief. It is used when people want to show that they strongly disagree with a certain idea, usually in writing or speaking. As an adjective, it describes something related to such arguments or debates.
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See It in Action
A strong written or spoken argument against an idea or belief
- •The article was a polemic against the new government policy.
- •She wrote a polemic criticizing the unfair rules.
- •His speech was a polemic that challenged traditional views.
Describing something related to strong arguments or controversy
- •The book has a polemic style that makes readers think deeply.
- •His polemic tone made the conversation tense.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "polemic" like "argument," but much stronger and more serious, not just a small disagreement
- ✓Picture two people loudly debating, each trying to prove the other wrong with strong words
- ✓It’s the feeling when someone speaks passionately to change others’ minds or defend their beliefs
- ✓Sounds like "pull-LEM-ick" → imagine someone pulling a heavy rope in a fight of words
- ✓In stories or news, a polemic is like a sharp sword made of words, cutting through ideas
- ✓NOT like "discussion" (calm and friendly talk), polemic is loud, strong, and sometimes angry
- ✓NOT like "debate" (formal and fair), polemic can be more one-sided and attacking
- ✓NOT like "complaint" (a small problem), polemic is a big, important argument with strong feelings
Try Other Words
- •Criticism: expressing disapproval or negative opinion (Use when the focus is on pointing out faults rather than arguing strongly)
- •Dispute: a disagreement or argument (Use for less aggressive or more formal disagreements)
- •Controversy: a public disagreement or debate (Use when the argument causes public attention and strong feelings)
- •Debate: a formal discussion with opposing views (Use when the argument is balanced and organized)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: from Greek "polemikos" meaning "warlike" or "hostile"
- •Etymology: comes from Greek "polemos" meaning "war" + suffix "-ic" meaning "related to"
- •Historical development: originally meant related to war or fighting, later used for fighting with words or ideas
- •Modern usage: used to describe strong, often aggressive arguments in writing or speech, especially in politics, religion, or ideas
- •Interesting fact: polemics often aim to persuade others by forceful language, not just calm explanation
Reflect & Connect
•How can a polemic be useful or harmful in discussions about important topics?
•When is it better to use calm discussion instead of a polemic style to share your opinions?
Fill in the blanks
1.The writer’s polemic was so strong that it ___ many readers to rethink their opinions.
2.A polemic usually happens when someone feels very ___ about an idea or belief.
3.Unlike a calm conversation, a polemic often ___ one side very strongly.
4.The politician’s polemic speech was meant to ___ the opposing party’s ideas.
5.You might find a polemic ___ in newspapers or opinion blogs where people argue loudly.
6.A polemic can be ___ or written, but it always tries to convince others forcefully.
7.When a discussion turns into a polemic, it often ___ feelings and makes people defensive.