ratchet

But this is a more unusual case of a local government changing the code not to ratchet up safety measures or energy efficiency requirements, but in order to lower costs and promote development.

Nationwide, the pendulum has shifted profoundly from a period when school officials ratcheted up graduation requirements as a way to spur student achievement.

So in the spring of 2024, Beijing ratcheted up pressure on tech executives.

Now, the prospect of also building a nuclear-powered submarine in Philadelphia has ratcheted up the ambition—and difficulty—even further.

Another loss will only ratchet up the pressure on Wane.