1
Worsen a problem
Increase the seriousness of an existing difficulty.
Example
Removing vegetation can exacerbate flooding.
exacerbate
/ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ · ig-ZASS-uh-baytverb
To make a problem, condition, or inequality worse.
Use exacerbate when an action or condition intensifies an existing difficulty rather than creating an unrelated problem.
What exacerbate Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Intensify conflict
Make existing tension or disagreement more severe.
Example
The delay exacerbated existing tensions between the groups.
3
Increase inequality
Deepen an existing difference in access, wealth, or opportunity.
Example
Unequal internet access may exacerbate educational inequality.
Use exacerbate Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The delay exacerbated existing tensions between the groups.
Prolonged drought exacerbated the region's water shortage.
The policy unintentionally exacerbated differences in access.
Precision Matters
Exacerbate overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
exacerbate
vs.Formally intensifies an existing negative condition.
worsen
Is the broad everyday verb for becoming or making worse.
exacerbate
vs.Makes an existing problem more severe.
cause
Brings a condition into existence.
exacerbate
vs.Is formal and common in analytical writing.
aggravate
Also means worsen and can additionally mean annoy.
exacerbate
vs.Increases severity.
mitigate
Reduces severity—the contrast.
Test exacerbate in Context
The change makes an existing flood risk more severe.
1
By removing wetlands that once absorbed storm water, development may ___ flooding in neighbourhoods already vulnerable to heavy rain.