Polemik
polemic, contentious argument
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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