The outcomes of the 2024 US presidential election caused profound divisions both domestically and internationally. The result of this division can be seen in Merriam-Webster's choice for the Word of the Year, "polarization."
Peter Sokolowski, the general editor of Merriam-Webster, claims that the term "polarization" refers to a certain kind of divide that leans more toward extremes than a middle ground.
Many people saw the opposition candidate as an existential threat to the country as a result of the election's high levels of political polarization.
Why did ‘Polarization’ Become Word of the Year
A survey by AP VoteCast, involving over 120,000 voters, revealed sharp divides among supporters of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Around 80% of Harris supporters considered Trump’s views extreme, while 70% of Trump supporters felt the same about Harris. The high percentage on both ends shows the level of polarization that occurred during the US elections in 2024.
Evolving Meaning of Polarization
The term "polarization" has taken on a broader meaning in recent days. The term captures not only political disagreements but also social and cultural conflicts. According to Merriam-Webster, the word is now used to describe divisions in areas like tech trends, celebrity debates, and even internet memes.
In an era where truth is often debated, dictionaries serve as neutral references. AP reports that Peter Sokolowski views the dictionary as a safeguard for clarity in a time of fake news and alternative facts. "It provides a backstop for meaning," he explained.
Words Shows Cultural Transition
Merriam-Webster's yearly word choice not only reflects cultural patterns but also provides insight into what the general public is interested in. Between the terms "authentic" in 2023 and "culture" in 2014, the last ten years have shown a wider cultural transition, highlighting the changing ideals and concerns of society.
Comments
All Comments (0)
Join the conversation