escalate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That summer saw temperatures exceed 40C for the first time in parts of Britain, stretching fire services to their limits and highlighting how rising heat and dryness can rapidly escalate fire risk.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

Oil prices whipsawed after Trump’s announcement before moving higher, as traders tried to gauge whether the plan would restart shipping through one of the world’s most vital energy chokepoints—or escalate tensions with Tehran.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Signatories of the landmark nuclear non-proliferation treaty began a meeting Monday at the United Nations as fears of a renewed arms race escalate, with atomic powers again at loggerheads over safeguards.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

The newly inaugurated Lyndon Johnson had sky-high support after John F. Kennedy’s assassination, political cover that arguably helped Johnson muscle civil rights legislation through Congress and escalate the Vietnam War.

From Slate • Apr. 26, 2026

Trying to figure out how not to have the situation escalate.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater