Grammar fix
a divisive issue
polarising topic
an issue or topic that strongly divides people's opinions, often causing heated debate or conflict between groups.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- Immigration has become a deeply divisive issue in many countries, splitting communities and families.society
- In my opinion, climate change is a highly divisive issue because it often leads to strong disagreements between politicians, scientists, and the general public.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: a divisive issue (for/in/among + group/context)
WrongImmigration is a very divided issue.
RightImmigration is a very divisive issue.
The issue is 'divisive' (it divides people); 'divided' describes the people, not the issue.
Patterna divisive issue (for/in/among + group/context)
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Divisive issue' is the compact term; the paraphrase is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
a divisive issue/figurehighlydeeplyissuefigure
Don't confuse it
Unlike 'a controversial issue', which means people disagree or debate, 'a divisive issue' highlights that the disagreement actually creates clear, often hostile, groups or camps.