Meaning of wedge issue | Babel Free

Definitions

A discussion point or a difference in points of view which is particularly likely to be controversial and a source of discord between discussants or other involved parties; a difference in viewpoints which causes disharmony within a political or social group.

Examples

“"It's sick," he gripes. "Everybody is tired of someone getting a job because of color." Republicans are exploiting such frustration. . . .. Says Kathy Spillar, national coordinator for the Feminist Majority: "The GOP wants to use it as a racial wedge issue."”

“The speech . . . gave Democrats that rare gift: a wedge issue that split Republicans and united Democrats.”

CEFR level