exacerbate
Translation
to worsen, to aggravate, to intensify
Examples
His angry comments only exacerbated the situation.
His angry comments only exacerbated the situation.
The new policy could exacerbate existing tensions.
The new policy could exacerbate existing tensions.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to make (a problem or bad situation) worse The new law will exacerbate poverty.
Similar Words
Synonyms: worsen, aggravate, intensify; Antonyms: alleviate, soothe, improve
Etymology
From Latin 'ex-' (thoroughly) + 'acerbus' (harsh, bitter). Literally, to make something thoroughly harsh.
Memory Tips
Imagine adding extra acid ('acer') to a problem, making it worse.