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.

But crude benchmarks were struggling for direction on Monday, suggesting investors were shrugging off fears that the conflict in the Middle East could escalate amid reports of a potential peace plan.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

"There's danger that they will escalate situations or respond very aggressively in... tense situations," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Opening on an already wild scene where the family members are bickering at the hospital deathbed of Linda’s mother, the events of “Big Mistakes” escalate quickly and considerably.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

In a situation like this, if you have been failed by the local police, escalate the case to adult protective services and the district attorney’s office.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

The terrible sounds he’d heard escalate for the last hour took on a high-pitched, mechanical squeal, like a robotic death yell.

From "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner