C1verb2K

UK/["/ˈeskəleɪt/","/ˈeskəleɪts/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪd/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪŋ/"]/US/["/ˈeskəleɪt/","/ˈeskəleɪts/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪd/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Escalate

to become greater, worse, more serious, etc.; to make something greater, worse, more serious, etc.

In simple words: To become worse or to make something worse.

Escalate in a sentence

  • the **escalating costs** of healthcare
  • The fighting escalated into a full-scale war.
  • We do not want to escalate the war.
  • The cost of raw materials has escalated sharply.
  • The risks gradually escalate.
  • Violence between the two sides has been steadily escalating.
  • The conflict could escalate rapidly into a full-scale war.
  • a small local disagreement that escalates into civil war
  • The budget escalated to £32 million.
  • If I don't get a satisfactory outcome, I'm going to have to escalate this issue.

How to use Escalate

Used in contexts where a situation is intensifying, often relating to conflicts or problems. Not suitable for casual conversation unless discussing serious issues.

Grammar pattern

escalate + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'ladder' to remember 'escalate' — you go up to a higher level of intensity.

Related words

Collocations with Escalate

  • escalate tensions
  • escalate the conflict
  • escalate a situation
  • escalate quickly
  • escalate an issue

Opposites of Escalate

Common mistakes with Escalate

  • Confused with 'escalator' — they have different meanings.
  • Misused in casual contexts where 'grow' or 'increase' would be better.
  • Omitting the object when saying 'escalate' (e.g., 'The conflict escalated' is correct, but 'The conflict escalates' may lack context).

Compare Escalate with Intensify, Increase, Magnify, Heighten, Raise

Escalate appears in

The Oxford 50002064

Escalate in other languages

More words like Escalate

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Frequently asked questions about Escalate

What does Escalate mean?

To become worse or to make something worse.

What is the definition of Escalate?

to become greater, worse, more serious, etc.; to make something greater, worse, more serious, etc.

How do you use Escalate in a sentence?

the **escalating costs** of healthcare

Can you give another example of Escalate?

The fighting escalated into a full-scale war.

What are synonyms for Escalate?

Common alternatives include intensify, increase, magnify, heighten, raise.

What is the opposite of Escalate?

Opposite meanings include de-escalate, calm, reduce.

What words go with Escalate?

It commonly pairs with escalate tensions, escalate the conflict, escalate a situation, escalate quickly, escalate an issue.

What are common mistakes when using Escalate?

Confused with 'escalator' — they have different meanings. Misused in casual contexts where 'grow' or 'increase' would be better. Omitting the object when saying 'escalate' (e.g., 'The conflict escalated' is correct, but 'The conflict escalates' may lack context).

How do you pronounce Escalate?

US: /["/ˈeskəleɪt/","/ˈeskəleɪts/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪd/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈeskəleɪt/","/ˈeskəleɪts/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪd/","/ˈeskəleɪtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Escalate?

Used in contexts where a situation is intensifying, often relating to conflicts or problems. Not suitable for casual conversation unless discussing serious issues.

What CEFR level is Escalate?

"Escalate" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.