Want to say escalate differently? Here are other words for escalate and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of escalate
The primary meaning of "escalate" is to increase or develop something, especially a problem or a conflict, into something more serious or severe.
Etymology of escalate
The word "escalate" originated in the mid-17th century from the noun "escalade", which referred to a ladder or a scaling of a wall, especially in a military context
The word is derived from the Old French word "escalade", which is itself derived from the Old Italian word "scalata", meaning "a scaling" or "a ladder"
The word "escalate" initially meant to scale a wall or a fortification, but its meaning expanded to include the idea of increasing or developing something into something more serious or severe
Synonyms
Definitions
- To increase or develop something, especially a problem or a conflict, into something more serious or severe
- To increase in extent, amount, or degree, especially in a way that is considered to be out of control or difficult to stop
- To use or introduce more severe measures, especially in a conflict or a competition
Usage Examples
- The conflict escalated into a full-scale war
- The problem escalated when the company refused to take responsibility
- The situation escalated quickly, and soon the police were involved
- The debate escalated into a heated argument
- The disease escalated rapidly, and the patient's condition deteriorated