polemic
rhetoric
Also known as: polemical literature, polemics
Quick Summary
A polemic is an aggressive attack or refutation of someone's ideas or principles. It is a form of aggressive argumentation or controversy, often used in writing or speech. The term originates from the Greek word for war, "polemos," highlighting its combative nature. Someone who engages in polemics is considered polemical, meaning they are argumentative, contentious, and prone to dispute. While polemics can be a tool for debate, they are characterized by their aggressive and often hostile tone.12
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