1. to increase in extent, volume, number, amount, intensity, or scope
2. to become more serious or severe
Usage: often used with conflicts or problems

Examples

• The argument escalated into a shouting match.
• Tensions between the two countries continued to escalate.
• The company decided to escalate the complaint to upper management.
• Costs have escalated dramatically over the past year.
• The protest escalated when police arrived.
• We need to escalate this issue to the supervisor.
• The conflict escalated beyond anyone’s expectations.