What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harshening
Example
The teacher's criticism only served to harshen the student's anxiety. [harshen: verb]
Example
The harshening weather conditions made it difficult for the hikers to continue. [harshening: gerund or present participle]
exacerbate
Example
His constant complaining only served to exacerbate the situation. [exacerbate: verb]
Example
The medication seemed to exacerbate her symptoms rather than alleviate them. [exacerbate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exacerbate is more commonly used than harshening in everyday language. Exacerbate is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while harshening is more limited in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harshening and exacerbate?
Exacerbate is generally considered more formal than harshening. While harshening is more informal and colloquial, exacerbate is often used in academic or professional settings.
