Escalate: meaning, definitions and examples

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escalate

[ˈɛskəˌleɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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
escalate	Used when describing a situation that is increasing in seriousness, intensity, or danger, often without control. Commonly used in conflict or crisis scenarios. The conflict between the two countries could escalate into a full-scale war. If the problem goes unresolved, it may escalate quickly.
intensify	Used when something increases in force, degree, or strength. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts. The campaign intensified as election day approached. The pain began to intensify as the hours passed.
heighten	Used to talk about increasing the level or intensity of something, such as emotions or awareness. Often used in neutral or positive contexts. The news report heightened public awareness about climate change. Her speech managed to heighten the crowd's enthusiasm.
aggravate	Used to describe making a situation worse, often with an element of annoyance or frustration. It carries a slightly negative connotation. His comments only served to aggravate the situation. Scratching the rash will aggravate your condition.
worsen	Used to describe a situation or condition getting progressively worse. It is straightforward with a clear negative connotation. His health began to worsen after the surgery. Relations between the two countries have worsened recently.

Examples of usage

The argument began to escalate when neither side would back down.
The protests escalated into violence as tensions rose.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a professional setting

To raise a matter to a higher level for consideration or action.

Synonyms

advance, elevate, promote.

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. The conflict could escalate into a full-blown war The manager had to escalate the issue to higher authorities
elevate	Used to describe raising something to a higher level, both literally and metaphorically, often with a positive connotation. Regular exercise can elevate your mood The new policy aims to elevate the standard of education
advance	Used to describe progress or movement forward in various contexts, such as technology, career, or knowledge, generally positive or neutral. Technology continues to advance at a rapid pace Her career advanced quickly after she finished her degree
promote	Frequently used in the context of raising someone to a higher position or rank, or making something more known or popular, generally positive. He was promoted to senior manager last year The organization works to promote environmental awareness

Examples of usage

I had to escalate the issue to my manager because it couldn't be resolved at my level.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "escalate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escalar

🇮🇳 बढ़ाना

🇩🇪 eskalieren

🇮🇩 meningkatkan

🇺🇦 ескалація

🇵🇱 eskalować

🇯🇵 エスカレートする

🇫🇷 intensifier

🇪🇸 escalar

🇹🇷 tırmandırmak

🇰🇷 확대하다

🇸🇦 تصعيد

🇨🇿 eskalovat

🇸🇰 eskalovať

🇨🇳 升级

🇸🇮 stopnjevati

🇮🇸 stigmagna

🇰🇿 эскалация

🇬🇪 ესკალაცია

🇦🇿 eskalasiya

🇲🇽 escalar

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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21060 incomparably
21061 polymorphic
21062 rancher
21063 escalate
21064 tasteless
21065 mien
21066 sleet
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