exacerbate
/ɪkˈsæs-/
Group 12Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse GRE
Example in Context
The supply shortage was exacerbated by panic buying, which drained store shelves faster than distribution networks could refill them.
Synonyms
worsenaggravateintensify
Etymology
To make a bad situation even worse.
- exacerbare (Latin) — to make worse
Memory Aid
🔥Sounds like “ex-acerbate”
When you EX-ACERBATE a fire by pouring gasoline on it — talk about making things worse!
Visual Association
🔥A small campfire suddenly roaring into a raging inferno after being doused with gasoline.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “exacerbate” mean on the GRE?
exacerbate (verb) means “To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse”. The supply shortage was exacerbated by panic buying, which drained store shelves faster than distribution networks could refill them.
How to remember “exacerbate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “exacerbate” sounds like “ex-acerbate”. When you EX-ACERBATE a fire by pouring gasoline on it — talk about making things worse!
What are synonyms for “exacerbate”?
Common synonyms: worsen, aggravate, intensify.