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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
Economy Environment
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