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Polemic: meaning, definitions and examples

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polemic

 

[ pəˈlɛmɪk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

debate, argument

A polemic is a strong verbal or written attack on someone or something. It typically involves contentious topics and is characterized by its argumentative nature. Polemics can arise in various fields such as politics, religion, and philosophy.

Synonyms

argument, controversy, debate, dispute

Examples of usage

  • The author's latest book is a polemic against modern consumerism.
  • His speech was a fierce polemic against government policies.
  • The article sparked a polemic among academics regarding historical interpretation.

Translations

Translations of the word "polemic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 polêmica

🇮🇳 विवादास्पद

🇩🇪 Polemik

🇮🇩 polemik

🇺🇦 п polemika

🇵🇱 polemi

🇯🇵 論争 (ろんそう)

🇫🇷 polémique

🇪🇸 polémica

🇹🇷 polemik

🇰🇷 논쟁 (논쟁)

🇸🇦 جدل

🇨🇿 polemička

🇸🇰 polemička

🇨🇳 争论 (zhēnglùn)

🇸🇮 polemična

🇮🇸 deilur

🇰🇿 п polemika

🇬🇪 პოლემიკა

🇦🇿 polemik

🇲🇽 polémica

Word origin

The word 'polemic' comes from the Greek word 'polemikos', meaning 'of war', which is derived from 'polemios', meaning 'hostile' or 'bellicose'. This Greek term relates to 'polemos', the word for 'war'. The use of 'polemic' in English dates back to the early 17th century, initially referring to the art or practice of disputation or controversy, particularly in scholarly or theological arguments. Over time, it has evolved to encompass a broader range of confrontational discourse and debate in various areas, reflecting how contention and argument have deep roots in intellectual traditions. The history of 'polemic' illustrates the significance of argumentation as a fundamental part of human discourse and thought.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,674, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.