aggravate
Translation
to worsen, to exacerbate, to annoy
Examples
Pollution can aggravate asthma.
Pollution can aggravate asthma.
His constant complaints began to aggravate her.
His constant complaints began to aggravate her.
Grammar Patterns
((sth.)) to make (a problem or injury) worse Pollution can aggravate asthma.
((sb.)) to annoy or exasperate (sb.) His constant complaints began to aggravate her.
Similar Words
Synonyms: worsen, exacerbate, annoy; Antonyms: alleviate, soothe
Etymology
From Latin 'aggravare' (to make heavier), from 'ad-' (to) + 'gravis' (heavy).
Memory Tips
Think of adding 'gravity' (weight) to a problem, making it worse, or to someone's mood, annoying them.