Intensify: meaning, definitions and examples

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intensify

[ɪnˈtɛnsɪfaɪ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

increase intensity

To make something stronger or more intense. This can refer to emotions, actions, or other qualities.

Synonyms

amplify, escalate, heighten.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intensify	Use when you want to describe something that is becoming more intense or stronger, often with emotional or physical pressure. The weather forecast predicts that the storm will intensify overnight Her emotions began to intensify as the deadline approached
heighten	Suitable for describing an increase in intensity, often related to awareness, excitement, or perception. The recent events have only served to heighten her sense of urgency The dramatic music helped to heighten the suspense of the movie
escalate	Used when describing a situation or conflict that is increasing in seriousness or intensity, generally carries a negative connotation. The conflict between the two countries began to escalate quickly Prices are expected to escalate due to increased demand
amplify	Appropriate for situations where you want to make something louder or more powerful, often used in connection with sound or signals, but can also refer to increasing the impact of something abstract. The speakers were used to amplify the music at the concert His comments served to amplify the tension in the room

Examples of usage

The storm is expected to intensify as it moves closer to the coast.
She decided to intensify her efforts to reach her goal.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

make more severe

To make something more severe or extreme, often in a negative way.

Synonyms

aggravate, exacerbate, worsen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intensify	Often used to describe feelings, efforts, or various conditions getting stronger or more extreme. Neutral connotation and can be either positive or negative depending on the situation. They decided to intensify their study efforts before the exam. Fears about the pandemic continue to intensify.
exacerbate	Used when something that is already bad becomes even worse. Commonly used in formal contexts such as medical or social issues. Negative connotation. Running in cold weather can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Their refusal to cooperate can exacerbate the conflict.
aggravate	Often used when something bad is made worse, usually referring to situations, emotions, or medical conditions. Generally has a negative connotation. Scratching the rash will only aggravate it. His constant complaints aggravate the situation.
worsen	Used when something declines in quality or condition. Typically has a negative connotation. The patient's condition began to worsen after the surgery. Economic conditions are likely to worsen over the coming months.

Examples of usage

The government has promised to intensify their efforts to combat terrorism.
The conflict in the region continues to intensify.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Latin 'intensificare', where 'intens' means 'to strengthen'.
It entered the English language in the late 19th century and evolved in meaning over time.

Science

In chemistry, intensifying refers to increasing the concentration of a substance within a solution.
Intensification is also discussed in physics when describing increasing energy levels in a system.

Psychology

Emotional intensification is when feelings become stronger, often leading to heightened responses.
Therapeutic techniques may focus on intensifying emotions to help individuals process their experiences.

Pop Culture

The term is commonly used in music and film to describe building excitement or drama, such as the climax of a story.
In lifestyle trends, people often say to 'intensify' your workout or diet to achieve better results.

Translations

Translations of the word "intensify" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intensificar

🇮🇳 तेज करना

🇩🇪 intensivieren

🇮🇩 memperkuat

🇺🇦 посилювати

🇵🇱 nasilenie

🇯🇵 強化する (kyōka suru)

🇫🇷 intensifier

🇪🇸 intensificar

🇹🇷 yoğunlaştırmak

🇰🇷 강화하다 (ganghwa hada)

🇸🇦 تكثيف

🇨🇿 zesílit

🇸🇰 zosilniť

🇨🇳 加强 (jiāqiáng)

🇸🇮 okrepiti

🇮🇸 styrkja

🇰🇿 күшейту

🇬🇪 გაძლიერება

🇦🇿 gücləndirmək

🇲🇽 intensificar

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,002, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13999 stair
14000 counterclaim
14001 culmination
14002 intensify
14003 galvanized
14004 veneration
14005 repulsive
...