What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intensify
Example
The music intensified as the concert reached its climax. [intensified: past tense]
Example
The heat wave is expected to intensify over the next few days. [intensify: verb]
escalate
Example
The argument between the two coworkers escalated quickly and became physical. [escalated: past tense]
Example
The company decided to escalate the issue to upper management for further review. [escalate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intensify is more commonly used in everyday language than escalate. Intensify can be used in various contexts, including emotional experiences, physical sensations, and concentration levels. Escalate, on the other hand, is more formal and often used in professional or academic settings to describe conflicts or disagreements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intensify and escalate?
Escalate is a more formal word than intensify. It is often used in professional or academic settings to describe conflicts or disagreements that are becoming more serious or dangerous over time. Intensify, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
