Escalate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
escalate
[หษskษหleษชt ]
Definitions
in a conflict
To increase in intensity, scope, or seriousness, especially by stages; to make something more severe or intense.
Synonyms
aggravate, heighten, intensify, worsen.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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escalate |
Used when describing a situation that is increasing in seriousness, intensity, or danger, often without control. Commonly used in conflict or crisis scenarios.
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intensify |
Used when something increases in force, degree, or strength. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
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heighten |
Used to talk about increasing the level or intensity of something, such as emotions or awareness. Often used in neutral or positive contexts.
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aggravate |
Used to describe making a situation worse, often with an element of annoyance or frustration. It carries a slightly negative connotation.
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worsen |
Used to describe a situation or condition getting progressively worse. It is straightforward with a clear negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The argument began to escalate when neither side would back down.
- The protests escalated into violence as tensions rose.
in a professional setting
To raise a matter to a higher level for consideration or action.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
escalate |
Typically used to describe situations that are increasing in intensity or seriousness, often with a negative connotation.
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elevate |
Used to describe raising something to a higher level, both literally and metaphorically, often with a positive connotation.
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advance |
Used to describe progress or movement forward in various contexts, such as technology, career, or knowledge, generally positive or neutral.
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promote |
Frequently used in the context of raising someone to a higher position or rank, or making something more known or popular, generally positive.
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Examples of usage
- I had to escalate the issue to my manager because it couldn't be resolved at my level.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Escalation often occurs in conflict situations, where emotions and tensions rise, leading to more severe disagreements.
- People tend to escalate situations when they feel threatened or attacked, as a way to defend themselves.
- Understanding escalation can help in conflict resolution, as recognizing triggers allows for de-escalation.
Pop Culture
- The phrase 'escalation of commitment' in movies often showcases characters doubling down on bad decisions.
- In video games, players might experience escalating challenges that require better skills as they progress.
- Music lyrics frequently reference escalating love and emotions, portraying the intensity of relationships.
Science
- In environmental discussions, the term can describe the gradual worsening of climate-related issues, like rising temperatures.
- In biology, an 'escalation' might refer to species evolving to become more competitive or aggressive in response to other species.
- Technological escalations, like the development of stronger weapons or faster computing, reflect how advancements drive competition.
Literature
- In many novels, characters face escalating challenges that mirror personal growth and conflict resolution.
- Authors often use escalating plot tension to maintain reader interest, gradually building up to a climax.
- Classic stories, like those by Shakespeare, frequently depict plots that escalate conflicts to emphasize themes of tragedy.
Origin of 'escalate'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'escalate' comes from the Latin word 'scala,' meaning 'ladder,' suggesting a rise or climb.
- It first appeared in the English language around the 1930s, originally related to military strategies.
- By the 1950s, it broadened in use to include any situation that becomes more intense or serious.
The word 'escalate' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Latin word 'scala' meaning 'ladder'. It first appeared in English with the meaning 'to increase by stages' in the context of military operations. Over time, the usage of 'escalate' expanded to include a wide range of contexts, from conflicts to professional settings.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #21,063, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
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