Aggravated: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when someone is feeling very frustrated or angry about a situation, often due to ongoing problems or provocations. It can also refer to a crime that becomes more severe because of certain circumstances.

• The constant noise from the construction site aggravated the residents.
• He was charged with aggravated assault.

This word describes a mildly negative feeling of being bothered or disrupted by something or someone. It's less intense than feeling aggravated.

• She was annoyed by the loud music playing next door.
• I'm annoyed that you didn't call me back.

This word indicates a feeling of discomfort or slight anger caused by something that is problematic or persistently annoying. It is similar to annoyed but can also refer to a physical sensation.

• Her eyes were irritated by the smoke.
• He was irritated by the delay in his flight.

Use this word when expressing an intense feeling of frustration, typically after repeated annoyances or failures. It indicates being at the end of one's patience.

• After asking her son to clean his room for the fifth time, she felt completely exasperated.
• I’m exasperated by the constant delays in the project.

Indicates a person becoming more annoyed or upset, often because of ongoing frustration. This usage has a negative connotation.

• She felt aggravated by the constant interruptions.
• He was clearly aggravated after waiting in line for an hour.

Used when referring to making a problem, situation, or feeling worse or more severe. It is often utilized in formal or academic settings.

• His comments only served to exacerbate the situation.
• The new policy could exacerbate the economic downturn.

A more general term for when something deteriorates or declines in quality, condition, or intensity. It is suitable for everyday use.

• Her health began to worsen after the surgery.
• The weather is supposed to worsen over the weekend.

Describes a situation that is growing in seriousness or intensity, often relating to conflicts, problems, or costs. It suggests a progression to a higher level.

• The argument started to escalate into a shouting match.
• If we don't address these issues now, they could escalate quickly.

This word is generally used to describe a situation or condition that has become worse, especially due to someone or something making it worse. It can also be used in a legal context to describe a crime that has been made more serious.

• His constant interruptions aggravated the meeting
• The injury was aggravated by continued physical activity

It is usually employed in formal writing or speech to indicate that a problem, condition, or negative situation has become worse due to specific actions or factors, often human-induced. It suggests a significant worsening.

• The drought was exacerbated by climate change
• Her health issues were exacerbated by the lack of medical care

This is a more general term that refers to any situation, condition, or problem that has declined in quality, performance, or condition. It is a straightforward word without specific connotations.

• His eyesight worsened over the years
• The economic crisis worsened as the unemployment rate increased