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schism

noun

/ˈsɪz(ə)m/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of schism

A division or split within a group or organization, often caused by a disagreement over beliefs or practices.
"The schism in the music band led to the departure of several members."

Detailed meaning of schism

The term is most commonly used to refer to divisions within religious organizations, such as the split between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church in the 11th century. In this context, a schism refers to a formal break in the unity of a religious organization, such as the formation of separate denominations or sects.
However, the term can also be used more broadly to refer to any split or division within a group or organization, whether it's a political party, a corporation, or a social movement. Schisms can occur for a variety of reasons, such as ideological differences, personal rivalries, or changes in leadership.
A schism can have significant consequences for the group or organization, including a loss of unity, power, and influence. It can also lead to the formation of new groups or organizations and the emergence of new leaders and ideologies.
In general, Schism refers to a division or split within a group or organization, often caused by a disagreement over beliefs or practices, and it can have significant consequences for the unity, power, and influence of the group or organization.

Example sentences containing schism

1. The schism within the political party has made it increasingly difficult to present a united front to voters.
2. A deep schism between traditionalists and progressives threatens the stability of the religious organization.
3. Despite their family schism, the two sisters decided to come together for their mother's 70th birthday.
4. The recent schism in the art world pits advocates of digital mediums against champions of traditional forms.
5. The schism between the union and management has led to a prolonged strike affecting thousands of workers.
6. Amidst the schism over educational reforms, the school board has struggled to reach a consensus on new policies.

History and etymology of schism

The noun 'schism' has its roots in ancient Greek, stemming from the word 'skhizein,' which means 'to split' or 'to separate.' In Greek, 'skhizein' referred to the physical act of dividing or cleaving something apart. Over time, this term took on a metaphorical sense to describe divisions or splits within groups, especially concerning matters of belief or practice. The word 'schism' was later adopted into Latin as 'schisma,' and eventually made its way into English. Consequently, 'schism' is used to denote a significant division or separation within a group or organization, often arising from disagreements or conflicts related to beliefs, practices, or principles. Its etymology underscores the fundamental idea of a fracture or separation within a collective entity.

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Further usage examples of schism

1. The schism in the fanbase over the franchise's new direction has led to heated debates on social media.
2. The schism within the company became evident when multiple departments failed to cooperate on the project.
3. Historical schisms have shaped the current geopolitical landscape, creating conflicts that persist today.
4. The schism among environmental activists revolves around whether incremental change is effective or insufficient.
5. A schism in the academic community has arisen due to differing interpretations of a groundbreaking study.
6. The schism between the older and younger generations on social issues is widening, causing societal tension.
7. The schism in the local church resulted in a split congregation, with some members forming a new parish.
8. Addressing the schism between police and the community requires transparent dialogues and meaningful reforms.
9. The schism among the team members was evident when they couldn't agree on a strategy for the upcoming game.
10. Cultural schisms often emerge from differing attitudes toward traditions, leading to societal divisions.
11. The philosophical schism between rationalism and empiricism has influenced various fields of inquiry.
12. The schism between rural and urban voters is becoming increasingly pronounced in modern electoral politics.
13. Economic schisms often lead to systemic inequality, perpetuating cycles of poverty and affluence.
14. The schism between doctors and administrators has complicated efforts to improve healthcare delivery.
15. A schism within the book club over the selection of reading material has some members considering departure.
16. The ongoing schism between animal rights activists and hunters shows no signs of resolving anytime soon.
17. The schism among fitness enthusiasts is often about the merits of cardio exercises versus strength training.
18. In the realm of psychology, a schism exists between proponents of behaviorism and those favoring psychoanalysis.
19. The schism in the musical group became public when two members decided to form a separate band.
20. As the schism in the neighborhood association grew, the annual block party was reluctantly cancelled.
21. A schism in the charity organization resulted from disagreements over the allocation of funds to various projects.
22. The schism within the online community over moderation policies has led to the creation of multiple splinter groups.
23. The schism between tenants and landlords is escalating, with both sides demanding legal reforms to address grievances.

Suffix -ism, GRE 4 (Graduate Record Examination), Adversities and Complications, Crisis and Opposition, Turmoil and Treachery, Anomaly and Difference, Division and Separation, Hostility and Dispute

breach,discord,dispute,rift,rupture

breakup,disharmony,disunion,separation,splintering