Exacerbate

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

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