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inflammatory

adjective

/ɪnˈflæm əˌtɔr i/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of inflammatory

Intended or likely to arouse strong emotions, particularly anger, hostility, or outrage.
"The article contained several inflammatory statements designed to provoke readers."

Detailed meaning of inflammatory

It describes statements, actions, or content that provoke or incite a negative or intense reaction from others. When used in the context of speech or writing, inflammatory language tends to be provocative, offensive, or controversial, often seeking to fuel tension or disagreement rather than promote constructive dialogue or understanding. Such inflammatory behavior or content can be polarizing, exacerbating existing divisions and conflicts within a community or society. It is important to approach discussions and debates with a focus on respectful and thoughtful communication rather than resorting to inflammatory tactics that hinder productive conversations.

Example sentences containing inflammatory

1. The politician's inflammatory remarks sparked widespread outrage and condemnation.
2. The inflammatory social media post ignited a heated debate among users.
3. The protesters carried signs with inflammatory slogans, escalating tensions at the rally.
4. The talk show host was known for his inflammatory remarks, often stirring up controversy.
5. The inflammatory video went viral, drawing criticism from viewers around the world.
6. The journalist's article was flagged for containing inflammatory language and unsubstantiated claims.

History and etymology of inflammatory

The adjective 'inflammatory' is rooted in its Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word 'inflammatio,' which comes from 'inflammare' (formed by 'in' meaning 'into' and 'flammare' meaning 'to set on fire'). Originally, 'inflammatory' was associated with physical conditions that caused redness, swelling, and heat, similar to the effects of fire, as it still does in medical contexts today. Over time, its meaning expanded to include figurative uses, such as something that is intended or likely to provoke strong emotions, especially anger, hostility, or outrage. Therefore, the etymology of 'inflammatory' links the idea of arousing emotional heat or intensity to its Latin roots, reflecting its modern usage to describe provocative or incendiary language or actions.

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Further usage examples of inflammatory

1. The inflammatory rhetoric used during the debate only served to deepen the divide between the candidates' supporters.
2. The inflammatory comments made by the celebrity caused a backlash from fans and the public.
3. The politician's inflammatory campaign ad targeted their opponent's personal life rather than focusing on policies.
4. The inflammatory remarks made by the religious leader were deemed disrespectful and offensive by many.
5. The newspaper received numerous complaints about the columnist's inflammatory column, accusing them of spreading hate speech.
6. The inflammatory remarks only fueled the heated debate further.
7. Her inflammatory comments on social media sparked outrage.
8. The politician's speech was filled with inflammatory rhetoric.
9. The newspaper published an inflammatory article about the scandal.
10. The debate took an inflammatory turn when personal attacks began.
11. His inflammatory behavior during the meeting shocked everyone.
12. The inflammatory language used in the advertisement offended many.
13. She regretted her inflammatory response to the criticism.
14. The controversial video had an inflammatory impact on viewers.
15. The court case generated inflammatory headlines in the media.
16. The protest escalated due to the inflammatory slogans chanted.
17. His inflammatory remarks towards coworkers caused tension.
18. The comedian's routine was criticized for its inflammatory humor.
19. The forum became a platform for inflammatory discussions.
20. The online argument grew increasingly inflammatory.
21. Her inflammatory accusations led to a breakdown in trust.
22. The documentary contained inflammatory allegations.
23. The blog post had an inflammatory tone throughout.
24. The book's inflammatory content stirred up controversy.
25. His inflammatory views on immigration sparked a fierce debate.