escalate
/ˈɛs.kə.leɪt/
Group 24Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To increase rapidly; to make or become more intense or serious GRE
Example in Context
Tensions between the two nations escalated sharply after the border incident, prompting an emergency session of diplomatic negotiations.
Synonyms
intensifyincreaseheighten
Etymology
To climb up rapidly, reflecting an increase in intensity.
- escalare (Latin) — to climb up
Memory Aid
📈Sounds like “escalate”
When the escalator starts moving too fast, it makes you SCREAM as it ESCALATES your panic!
Visual Association
🚀A rocket shooting up into the sky, getting faster and faster as it ESCALATES into outer space.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “escalate” mean on the GRE?
escalate (verb) means “To increase rapidly; to make or become more intense or serious”. Tensions between the two nations escalated sharply after the border incident, prompting an emergency session of diplomatic negotiations.
How to remember “escalate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “escalate” sounds like “escalate”. When the escalator starts moving too fast, it makes you SCREAM as it ESCALATES your panic!
What are synonyms for “escalate”?
Common synonyms: intensify, increase, heighten.