acerbate

[ˈæsərbeɪt]

acerbate Definition

to make a situation worse or more severe, especially causing increased bitterness or irritation.

Using acerbate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "acerbate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    His constant complaining only served to acerbate the situation.

  • Example

    The new policy has acerbated tensions between the two countries.

  • Example

    Her criticism only acerbated the already tense atmosphere in the room.

acerbate Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for acerbate

Phrases with acerbate

  • a sharp and biting style of humor or commentary

    Example

    Her acerbic wit was both feared and admired by her colleagues.

  • a sour or bitter taste

    Example

    The lemon had an acerbic taste that made my mouth pucker.

  • a sharp and critical way of speaking

    Example

    Her acerbic tongue often got her into trouble with her friends and family.

Origins of acerbate

from Latin 'acerbare', meaning 'to make sour'

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Summary: acerbate in Brief

'Acerbate' [ˈæsərbeɪt] is a verb that means to make a situation worse or more severe, often causing increased bitterness or irritation. Examples include 'His constant complaining only served to acerbate the situation,' and 'The new policy has acerbated tensions between the two countries.' 'Acerbic wit,' 'acerbic taste,' and 'acerbic tongue' are phrases that use 'acerbic' to describe a sharp, biting style of humor or commentary, a sour or bitter taste, and a sharp and critical way of speaking, respectively.