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.

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

In a situation like this, if you have been failed by the local police, escalate the case to adult protective services and the district attorney’s office.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

“When hotels are used to house ICE or Border Patrol personnel, workers may be exposed to situations involving heavy armed federal presence, protests, and law-enforcement responses that can escalate rapidly,” the letter reads.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

Such action would significantly escalate the conflict, which has already disrupted global energy supplies, pushing up prices and causing fuel shortages.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Ironically, the good times in between were what allowed it to drag out and escalate as far as it did.

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah