a dramatic escalation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dramatic escalation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant increase or intensification in a situation, often in contexts such as conflict, tension, or events. Example: "The negotiations broke down, leading to a dramatic escalation in hostilities between the two countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, this attack on civilians is a dramatic escalation.

The Guardian - Opinion

In recent months, the war between humans and seagulls has seen a dramatic escalation in violence.

The Guardian

The al-Harethi operation also marked a dramatic escalation of the American war on terrorism.

The New Yorker

The auto tariffs would mark a dramatic escalation in Trump's war-against-all on trade.

The Washington Post

Hersh went on, The al-Harethi operation also marked a dramatic escalation of the American war on terrorism.

The New Yorker

Veteran referees say they have seen a dramatic escalation in the last 10 years despite continuing efforts.

The New York Times - Sports

If true, the blast would mark a dramatic escalation in a shadow war over the Iranian nuclear programme.

The Guardian

That huddle likely provides the last best hope for heading off a dramatic escalation of the trade conflict.

The Washington Post

This marked the beginning of a dramatic escalation of French military intervention in the Syrian Civil War.

Britannica

Coulter's frustration with Trump has been building for months, but her current fury represents a dramatic escalation.

The Washington Post

His involvement in the dispute is against advice from loyalist politicians, and marks a dramatic escalation of the difficulties facing the RUC and army.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dramatic escalation", ensure the context clearly establishes what is escalating. Be specific about the area or situation experiencing the intensification to provide clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a dramatic escalation" in contexts where the increase is minimal or unsubstantiated. Overusing this phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing appear sensationalist or biased.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dramatic escalation" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific instance of something becoming more intense, severe, or widespread. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dramatic escalation" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that signifies a significant increase in intensity or severity. Ludwig AI indicates that it's most frequently found in News & Media contexts, with substantial presence also in Academia and Encyclopedias. When using this phrase, remember to specify what is escalating to maintain clarity and impact. Avoid overuse in sensationalized reporting to preserve its effectiveness. Alternatives like "a significant increase" or "a sharp rise" can provide more neutral options when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant intensification

This alternative focuses on the process becoming more intense or severe.

a considerable heightening

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes an increase in intensity or tension.

a substantial increase

This alternative uses more neutral language, focusing on the size of the increase rather than its intensity.

a rapid surge

This alternative emphasizes the speed and force of the increase.

a marked rise

This alternative suggests a noticeable increase, but may not convey the same sense of urgency or severity.

a steep climb

This alternative implies a steady but significant increase over time.

a sharp upturn

This alternative implies a sudden and steep increase, often in a quantifiable metric.

a pronounced augmentation

This alternative is highly formal and emphasizes a measurable increase.

a noticeable worsening

This alternative frames the increase as a negative development.

a quantum leap

This alternative suggests a sudden and very large increase, often implying a change in kind, not just degree.

FAQs

How to use "a dramatic escalation" in a sentence?

You can use "a dramatic escalation" to describe a sudden and significant increase in intensity, such as "The conflict saw "a dramatic escalation" after the border incident".

What can I say instead of "a dramatic escalation"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant increase", "a sharp rise", or "a considerable heightening" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "a dramatic escalation" or "an dramatic escalation"?

"A dramatic escalation" is correct. The article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound, while "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "a dramatic escalation" and "a gradual increase"?

"A dramatic escalation" implies a sudden and intense increase, whereas "a gradual increase" suggests a slow and steady growth over time.