balkanize

Pronunciation

Verb B1 Intermediate

To break a country or organization into smaller, often hostile, groups or units.

"Critics warned that the policy could balkanize the country along ethnic lines."

Synonyms and antonyms

fragment splinter

unify

Comes from the historical breakup of the Balkans into smaller states, now used for any similar fragmentation.

Which word fits the gap? "Critics warned that the policy could _____ the country along ethnic lines."

Answer: balkanize

In your own words, what does "balkanize" mean?

To break a country or organization into smaller, often hostile, groups or units.