What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
escalate
Example
The tension between the two countries continued to escalate. [escalate: verb]
Example
The argument escalated into a physical fight. [escalated: past tense]
intensify
Example
The storm is expected to intensify over the next few hours. [intensify: verb]
Example
Her anger intensified as she listened to the news. [intensified: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intensify is more commonly used than escalate in everyday language. Intensify is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while escalate is less common and often associated with negative situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between escalate and intensify?
Both escalate and intensify can be used in formal and informal contexts, but escalate may be more commonly used in formal or professional settings due to its association with conflicts or problems that require resolution.
