noun

escalation

escalation, increase, intensification

We must prevent an escalation of the conflict.

We must prevent an escalation of the conflict.

The escalation in prices is a major concern.

The escalation in prices is a major concern.

((an)) escalation ((of sth.)) an increase in the intensity or scale of something. We must prevent an escalation of the conflict.

Synonyms: increase, intensification, rise; Antonyms: de-escalation, decrease

From the verb 'escalate', which is derived from 'escalator'. It conveys the idea of something rising step-by-step.

Picture a problem riding an escalator upwards, getting more serious with each step.

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