Synonyms for

Escalate

Verb / ˈeskʌˌleɪt / Another word for escalate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To increase rapidly or become more intense.

Synonyms & similar words

intensify stepup deescalate intensify heighten boost amplify magnify augment expand swell multiply snowball inflate surge spike accelerate aggravate exacerbate provoke stimulate promote worsen

Synonyms by register

Formal

intensify heighten magnify amplify

Informal

heat up get worse step up blow up

Literary

wax aggrandize

Antonyms

de-escalate decrease lessen reduce calm soothe abate

Common collocations

  • escalate rapidly
  • escalate quickly
  • escalate tensions
  • escalate conflict
  • escalate violence
  • escalate costs
  • escalate a dispute

Word family

noun escalation
verb escalate
adjective escalatory

Usage note

Often used to describe a worsening situation, particularly in conflicts or disputes. Be mindful of its negative connotation.

Example sentences

  1. The tension between the two countries has escalated into a war.
  2. If you don't stop yelling, the situation will escalate.
  3. The cost of living continues to escalate every year.
  4. The teacher had to intervene when the argument escalated in class.
  5. The company decided to escalate their marketing efforts to increase sales.

Quotes

  • Peace is not the absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means.
  • A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.
  • The best way to predict the future is to create it.

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