Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
compound-the-problem
idiomatic phrase
/kəmˈpaʊnd ðə ˈprɒbləm/
Definition
To make a problem worse by adding to it.
Examples
- Ignoring the deadline will only compound the problem.
- Her refusal to discuss the issue further compounded the problem.
- By choosing not to address the conflict, he only compounded the problem.
Meaning
When someone compounds the problem, they take an existing issue and increase its severity or complexity through their actions or decisions.
Synonyms
- exacerbate
- worsen
- aggravate
