Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
aggravate the situation
phrase
/ˈaɡrəˌveɪt ðə ˌsɪtʃuˈeɪʃən/

Definition
to make a problem or situation worse or more severe.

Examples
- His constant criticism only served to aggravate the situation between the two parties.
- Ignoring the complaints will only aggravate the situation further.
- Instead of helping, his remarks seemed to aggravate the situation.

Meaning
When someone takes an action that exacerbates an existing issue, they are aggravating the situation.

Synonyms
- exacerbate the situation
- worsen the situation
- compound the issue