Meaning of the word exacerbate in English

What does exacerbate mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

exacerbate

US /ɪɡˈzæs.ɚ.beɪt/

UK /ɪɡˈzæs.ɚ.beɪt/

make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse

Example:

•

The new policy will only exacerbate the problem of unemployment.

•

His rude comments only served to exacerbate the tension in the room.

Synonym:

aggravate worsen intensify heighten compound

Synonym:

alleviate mitigate improve lessen ease

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Related Word:

exacerbation