escalation — a rapid increase or rise in the intensity or seriousness of something; an increase in the intensity of a conflict
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a rapid increase or rise in the intensity or seriousness of something; an increase in the intensity of a conflict
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌeskəˈleɪʃən/
Example Sentences
- The escalation began when he ate the last slice of pizza without asking.
- The company feared an escalation in the dispute with workers.
- What started as a small argument led to a full escalation involving the entire family.
escalation
NOUN[/ˌeskəˈleɪʃən/]
a rapid increase or rise in the intensity or seriousness of something; an increase in the intensity of a conflict
A small border argument turns into a full escalation of tanks and troops.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin 'scala' meaning 'ladder' or 'staircase'. The word metaphorically describes a situation worsening in progressive stages, as if climbing a staircase step by step.
Breakdown
escalate (to increase or intensify) + -tion (noun-forming suffix), where escalate itself derives from Latin scala (ladder, staircase) through Old French.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The escalation began when he ate the last slice of pizza without asking.”
“The company feared an escalation in the dispute with workers.”
“What started as a small argument led to a full escalation involving the entire family.”
“The escalation of my homework stress reached dangerous levels during finals week.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.