verschärfen
Translation
to tighten, to intensify, to sharpen, to aggravate
Examples
Die Regierung verschärft die Gesetze.
The government is tightening the laws.
Der Konflikt hat sich verschärft.
The conflict has intensified.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) verschärfen to tighten/intensify (sth.) The government is tightening the laws.
sichAkk verschärfen to intensify (reflexive) The conflict has intensified.
Similar Words
Synonyms: intensivieren, verstärken, zuspitzen; Antonyms: entschärfen, lockern, mildern
Etymology
From the prefix 'ver-' (indicating a change) + 'schärfer' (comparative of 'scharf', meaning 'sharper' or 'stricter'). Literally 'to make sharper'.
Memory Tips
Think of making a rule or a situation 'schärfer' (sharper, stricter). The 'ver-' prefix indicates the process of making it so.