Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for escalate. Search instead for ezalatt.
Definitions

escalate

[es-kuh-leyt] / ˈɛs kəˌleɪt /
VERB
increase, be increased
Synonyms
STRONGEST
expand grow heighten intensify mount raise rise step up widen
STRONG
amplify ascend broaden climb enlarge extend magnify scale
WEAK
make worse
Antonyms
STRONGEST
decline decrease diminish drop fall halt lessen lower reduce slow slump stop
STRONG
abridge compress condense contract curtail descend go down shorten shrink
WEAK
weaken

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.

Both times saw military tensions escalate in the middle of negotiations.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

But crude benchmarks were struggling for direction on Monday, suggesting investors were shrugging off fears that the conflict in the Middle East could escalate amid reports of a potential peace plan.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

But he doubled down on his deadline — following up with a post warning Iran that attacks would escalate at 8 p.m.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

If the conflict continues to escalate, with growing economic costs and American casualties, Mr. Trump might respond with unconventional escalations of his own.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

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

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater