Exacerbate

Verb

Definition: To make a problem, situation, or condition worse; to aggravate or intensify something.

Synonyms: Worsen, Aggravate, Compound, Escalate

Antonyms: Alleviate, Ease, Mitigate, Relieve

Examples:

The lack of rain exacerbated the drought situation.
His constant complaints about the noise only exacerbated the tension in the office.

Mnemonics:

"Exacerbate" sounds similar to "exasperate," which means to irritate or annoy. Both words involve making a situation worse.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "exacerbate" comes from the Latin word "exacerbat-" which means "to provoke" or "to irritate." It is derived from the combination of "ex-" (meaning "out") and "acerbare" (meaning "to make bitter or harsh").

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the mid-17th century with a similar meaning of intensifying or making something worse.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Pour oil on troubled waters, not exacerbate them"

Explanation:

This phrase emphasizes the importance of trying to calm or soothe a difficult situation instead of making it worse.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "exacerbate" with "exasperate" or "aggravate."

Explanation:

While these words may have similar meanings in some contexts, "exacerbate" specifically refers to making a problem or condition worse. "Exasperate" refers to annoying or irritating someone, and "aggravate" can mean to make a situation more severe or bothersome but does not carry the same emphasis on worsening a problem.