Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
aggravate the situation
phrase
/ˈaɡrəˌveɪt ðə ˌsɪtʃuˈeɪʃən/
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/brand_identity-01.png)
Definition
to make a problem or situation worse or more severe.
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/migrate-02.png)
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.
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ux-02.png)
Meaning
When someone takes an action that exacerbates an existing issue, they are aggravating the situation.
![](https://vocabdictionary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/text-file-font.png)
Synonyms
- exacerbate the situation
- worsen the situation
- compound the issue