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加剧
jiājù
worsen
这种行为只会加剧社会矛盾。
This behavior will only worsen social conflicts.
formal
To make a situation, problem, or conflict more severe or intense.
干旱加剧了粮食短缺问题。
The drought worsened the food shortage problem.
两国关系的恶化加剧了地区不稳定。
The deterioration of bilateral relations exacerbated regional instability.
Often used in formal or analytical contexts to describe negative escalation.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage in news headlines
In Chinese news, '加剧' often appears in headlines to highlight worsening crises (e.g., '通胀加剧' = 'inflation worsens'). Mimic this pattern for natural-sounding writing.
Gold Rule
Avoid overuse
Do not use '加剧' for gradual changes or neutral escalation. Reserve it for sudden or alarming deterioration in serious contexts.
Word Origin
Composed of 加 (jiā, 'to add/increase') and 剧 (jù, 'severe/intense'), reflecting the idea of 'increasing severity'. The compound has been used in Chinese since the 20th century to describe escalation in negative contexts.
Usage Notes
Primarily used in formal writing or news reports. Avoid using it for minor issues; reserve it for significant deterioration. Compare with '恶化' (deteriorate) which is more general.
Word Breakdown
加
to add/increase
root剧
severe/intense
root汉英词典