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Polemik

polemic, contentious argument

noun po-LAY-mik Rare

Origin: from Greek polemikos (warlike)

Usage Note

Polemik denotes sharply critical, often one-sided argument intended to attack an opponent's position. Politische Polemik — political polemic. In German public discourse, accusing someone of Polemik implies their argument is more inflammatory than substantive.

Examples

"Seine Rede steckte voller Polemik und ließ wenig Raum für sachliche Diskussion."

Natural Translation

His speech was full of polemic and left little room for factual discussion.

Literal Translation

His speech was full of polemic and left little room for factual discussion.

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