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.
After Larissa is missing overnight without her medication, officers escalate the search to “high risk”.
From BBC • May 27, 2026
"Once demands escalate to the point of calling for a resignation, there's no backing down. It becomes more of a war of attrition," she said.
From Barron's • May 21, 2026
There are confirmed cases among those who already left the boat and questions swirling over possible exposures on flights, pressuring U.S. health officials to escalate their strategy to halt its spread.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 9, 2026
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
“And you were trying to hurt their feelings. That’s the problem with stuff like this—everyone keeps trying to top one another, and then things escalate out of control.”
From "Auggie & Me" by R. J. Palacio
Vocabulary lists containing escalate
This Week in Words: September 25 - October 1, 2017
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
This Week in Words: October 22 - 27, 2017
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Higher Learning: Synonyms For "Up"
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
