escalate
To increase in intensity or severity, or to refer something to a higher authority.
Examples
In a meeting
“If the vendor doesn't respond by Friday, escalate this to their account manager.”
Over coffee
“Things escalated quickly when both sides started yelling.”
Why this word
increase
Escalate implies rapid or concerning intensification often of conflict or problems, while increase is neutral about quantity growing
intensify
Escalate suggests progressive worsening with stages or levels, while intensify just means becoming stronger
worsen
Escalate emphasizes the rising progression through stages, while worsen just describes becoming worse without implying staged progression
Usage tip
In business, often means passing an issue to someone with more authority. Generally, means increasing in severity.
Etymology
Latin scala (ladder, staircase) + -ate, literally 'to go up the ladder'
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.