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escalation

es-kuh-LAY-shun ˌɛskəˈleɪʃən

nounC1GRETOEFLIELTS

FormalPoliticalMilitary

An increase in the intensity, seriousness, or scope of something; an intensification. In military terms, an increase in the scope, intensity, or destructiveness of a conflict.

Often implies a dangerous, undesirable, or uncontrolled increase that leads to a more severe state, especially in conflicts or disputes.

The story behind the word. The word 'escalation' was coined in the 1930s, likely derived from 'escalator' (which itself comes from the Latin `scala`, meaning 'ladder' or 'staircase'). It literally means 'to go up a ladder.' The term gained widespread use in the context of military strategy and international relations during the Cold War to describe the increasing severity or intensity of conflicts, often with a sense of uncontrolled progression.

Word relationships

intensification: The action of making or becoming more intense.
heightening: Making or becoming more intense or severe.
worsening: Making or becoming worse.

de-escalation: The reduction of the intensity or seriousness of a conflict or situation.
reduction: The action or fact of reducing something.
abatement: The action of lessening or reducing something.

Word family

escalate (verb): To increase rapidly; to intensify.
escalatory (adjective): Tending to escalate.

Collocations

military escalation
escalation of conflict
risk of escalation
prevent escalation
de-escalation

Example sentences

"The diplomatic incident threatened to lead to a dangerous escalation of tensions between the two rival powers." Discussing international conflict.
"The rapid escalation of housing prices made homeownership unattainable for many young families." Referring to a general problem.
"Military analysts warned against the risk of nuclear escalation if conventional conflicts were not carefully managed." In a military context.

Memory hook

Think of an 'ESCALATOR' – when things 'escalate,' they go up and up, becoming more intense, just like you go up on an escalator. Increase in intensity.

When not to use

For a simple increase, 'increase' or 'rise' are sufficient. 'Escalation' suggests a progression to a more serious, often critical, level.

Fun facts

The concept of 'escalation ladder' was developed during the Cold War to describe a theoretical progression of conflict intensity, from minor skirmishes to full-scale nuclear war.

Related words

first-strike, second-strike

Explore more words

escalate, de-escalate, intensify, step up, de-escalation, heighten