polemics

American  

[puh-lem-iks, poh-] / pəˈlɛm ɪks, poʊ- /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the art or practice of disputation or controversy.

   a master of polemics.

2. the branch of theology dealing with the history or conduct of ecclesiastical disputation and controversy.

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polemics British  

/ pəˈlɛmɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the art or practice of dispute or argument, as in attacking or defending a doctrine or belief

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Etymology

Origin of polemics

First recorded in 1630–40; see origin at polemic, -ics

Example Sentences

As the premier outlined a programme that included reforms of the justice system and state bureaucracy, he added: “Politics doesn’t need conflicts. Polemics and marking out our differences do not help.”

From The Guardian • Dec. 30, 2019

Polemics about his more enigmatic characteristics, the search for a way to get him to play his best and how to fit him in the tactical scheme of things, bubbled from the off.

From The Guardian • Jul. 16, 2018

Polemics rather than a balanced understanding of social-economic self-interest have long characterized immigration discourse and policy.

From New York Times • Jan. 27, 2018

Polemics made aggressive arguments in church or at court.

From BusinessWeek • Sep. 4, 2014

Interesting though the two last points are of necessity to any student of Church organization and ritual, we pass them by to consider the 'Ecclesiastical Polemics.'

From The Quarterly Review, Volume 162, No. 324, April, 1886 by Various