escalate

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The U.S. military buildup in the Mideast came as fighting continued to escalate in the Persian Gulf region on Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

If the conflict continues to escalate, with growing economic costs and American casualties, Mr. Trump might respond with unconventional escalations of his own.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

His comments come as the war involving Iran continues to escalate, raising fears of a broader regional conflict and drawing political responses from leaders in the United States and beyond.

From Salon • Mar. 29, 2026

Such action would significantly escalate the conflict, which has already disrupted global energy supplies, pushing up prices and causing fuel shortages.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Trying to figure out how not to have the situation escalate.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater