schism

[siz-uhm, skiz-] / ˈsɪz əm, ˈskɪz- /

NOUN

separation

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alienation breakup disagreement discord dissension fissure rift rupture

STRONG

break difference disunion division divorce faction fracture gap parting secession split

WEAK

splinter group

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreement closing closure harmony peace

STRONG

accord conformity juncture marriage unity whole

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

How to handle inside information is already generating a schism in the prediction-market world.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

This is the culmination of a profound schism between the U.S. and Europe over what should unite them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026

But this time, the schism feels more permanent.

From BBC • Dec. 23, 2025

Does it reflect a schism within the military over its propriety?

From Slate • Oct. 21, 2025

Was this a schism too far for the already reeling Western tradition to handle?

From "The Story of Music" by Howard Goodall