Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Exacerbate
verb
/ ig-ZAS-er-bayt /
Medium
Meaning
To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse
Origin / Etymology
Latin exacerbare — ex (thoroughly) + acerbus (harsh, bitter)
Synonyms
Aggravate
Worsen
Compound
Intensify
Inflame
Antonyms
Alleviate
Mitigate
Ameliorate
Ease
Example Sentence
"Unplanned urbanisation exacerbates inequality and strains civic infrastructure in Indian cities."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Essential word for essay writing and GS answers. Use when describing how one problem worsens another — climate change, poverty, inequality, inflation.
Relevant Subjects