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Synonyms

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.


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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of polemics

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

"A Kingdom that counters polemics and resignation through friendship and a culture of encounter. Let us believe once again in love, moderation and good politics."

From Barron's Apr. 11, 2026

What Mr. Restall means is that the great explorer is still at the center of a swarm of unresolved polemics.

From The Wall Street Journal Jan. 2, 2026

Apart from fierce polemics, the election has generated widespread confusion.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 2, 2025

One of the more recent and ballyhooed polemics against Roosevelt was "The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression," a 2007 bestseller by Amity Shlaes.

From Salon Nov. 4, 2023

Prison conditions have a way of tempering polemics, and making individuals see more what unites them than what divides them.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

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