a significant escalation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a significant escalation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a notable increase or intensification in a situation, often in contexts such as conflict, prices, or tensions. Example: "The recent events have led to a significant escalation in hostilities between the two countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So waiving it, even temporarily, is a significant escalation of the Fed's rescue efforts.

The New York Times

Any such move would mark a significant escalation in the crisis.

The Guardian

The fluffy jumper, therefore, marks a significant escalation in ambition from the statement knit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Gracie's resignation has caused a significant escalation of the pay row at the BBC.

The Guardian

Yet Tuesday's air raid represents a significant escalation between the two nuclear-armed powers.

The Washington Post

Still, the rocket attack was a significant escalation in Iran's maneuvers in the Middle East.

The New York Times

It would mark a significant escalation for Iran to conduct terror operations inside the United States.

The Washington Post

This appears to be the first sign of a significant escalation of activity in the inquiry.

The Guardian

The helicopter attacks are regarded as a significant escalation by the government side in the conflict.

The New York Times

The bank's vigorous response Sunday was a significant escalation of the milder intervention of the past.

The New York Times

"The involvement of the monks is a significant escalation," said David Steinberg, an expert on Myanmar at Georgetown University.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “a significant escalation” to emphasize a clear and impactful increase in intensity, scope, or severity in situations like conflicts, market trends, or political tensions.

Common error

Avoid using “a significant escalation” in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "increase" or "rise" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “a significant escalation” functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. It describes a notable increase in intensity, scope, or severity. Ludwig examples show it being used to describe escalations in conflict, disputes, and even cyber hostilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase “a significant escalation” is a commonly used expression, particularly in news and media, to denote a notable increase in the intensity or severity of a situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for formal contexts. While alternatives like "a marked intensification" or "a steep increase" exist, “a significant escalation” effectively conveys the gravity of an escalating event. When using this phrase, remember to reserve it for situations where the increase is substantial and consequential, avoiding overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marked intensification

Replaces 'significant' with 'marked', emphasizing a noticeable increase.

a considerable rise

Focuses on the aspect of increase or rise in quantity or degree.

a steep increase

Highlights a rapid and substantial rise.

a major surge

Emphasizes a sudden and powerful increase.

a dramatic upturn

Conveys a sudden and noticeable improvement or increase.

a heightened degree

Focuses on the increased level or extent of something.

a sharp uptrend

Suggests a clear and rapid upward movement or development.

a growing intensity

Highlights the increasing strength or severity of something.

a worsening situation

Emphasizes the deterioration or aggravation of a condition.

a critical turning point

Implies a moment of significant change towards a more intense or decisive phase.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant escalation" in a sentence?

You can use "a significant escalation" to describe an increase in the intensity or severity of a situation. For example, "The recent bombings represent "a significant escalation" in the conflict."

What are some alternatives to "a significant escalation"?

Alternatives include "a marked intensification", "a considerable rise", or "a steep increase", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a significant escalation" in formal writing?

Yes, "a significant escalation" is suitable for formal writing, especially in news reports, academic papers, and business documents, where precision and impact are important.

What distinguishes "a significant escalation" from a simple "increase"?

"A significant escalation" implies a more substantial and consequential increase than a simple "increase", often suggesting a turning point or a more dangerous phase.