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.

The U.S. military buildup in the Mideast came as fighting continued to escalate in the Persian Gulf region on Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

"There's danger that they will escalate situations or respond very aggressively in... tense situations," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

His comments come as the war involving Iran continues to escalate, raising fears of a broader regional conflict and drawing political responses from leaders in the United States and beyond.

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2026

It comes amid fears that Wednesday’s series of attacks on energy infrastructure could escalate, further disrupting the global supply of oil.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

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

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater