exacerbate
Translation
to exacerbate, to worsen, to aggravate
Examples
His angry comments only exacerbated the situation.
His angry comments only exacerbated the situation.
Grammar Patterns
to exacerbate ((sth.)) to make (sth.) worse Don't exacerbate the problem.
Similar Words
Synonyms: worsen, aggravate; Antonyms: alleviate, improve
Etymology
From Latin 'ex-' (out, thoroughly) and 'acerbus' (harsh, bitter). Literally 'to make harsh'.
Memory Tips
Think 'ex-' (extra) + 'acerbic' (sour/bitter) -> making something extra bitter or worse.