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 Red Cross warned that Ebola can escalate quickly if cases are not identified early, communities lack information and health systems are overwhelmed, adding that "we are seeing all those conditions" in the current outbreak.
From BBC • May 19, 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
“It could become a game-changer if prices escalate further, or if the situation persists for a longer period of time,” he said.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 2, 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
“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
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This Week in Words: October 22 - 27, 2017
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Higher Learning: Synonyms For "Up"
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