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Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing

Ratchet

noun / verb / RATCH-it / Medium
Meaning

A mechanism that allows movement in only one direction; to increase progressively without the possibility of reversal

Origin / Etymology

French rochet (bobbin, ratchet)

Synonyms
Escalate Intensify Notch up
Antonyms
Reduce De-escalate Reverse
Example Sentence
"The Paris Agreement operates on a five-year ratchet cycle, requiring each country to submit progressively more ambitious NDCs."
🎯 UPSC Usage

Use in environment and IR essays when discussing climate commitments, escalating tensions, or irreversible policy shifts. The 'ratchet mechanism' of the Paris Agreement is a frequently tested concept.

Relevant Subjects
Environment International Relations
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