verb to make a problem or situation worse
Exacerbate is used to describe the intensification of negative environmental impacts, such as exacerbating pollution or exacerbating climate change.
Exacerbate is used to describe a worsening of symptoms or conditions, such as exacerbating pain or exacerbating a disease.
Exacerbate is used to describe the escalation of conflicts or tensions between countries, such as exacerbating diplomatic relations or exacerbating political instability.
In a professional context, a writer may use 'exacerbate' when discussing how a character's actions can exacerbate a conflict in a story.
Psychologists may use 'exacerbate' when describing how certain behaviors or situations can exacerbate a patient's mental health condition.
Doctors may use 'exacerbate' when explaining how certain medications or treatments can exacerbate a patient's symptoms.
Human Resources Managers may use 'exacerbate' when discussing how poor communication within a team can exacerbate workplace tensions.