escalation of hostilities

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "escalation of hostilities" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where conflicts or aggressive actions between parties are increasing in intensity or severity. Example: "The recent events have led to an escalation of hostilities between the two nations, raising concerns about potential military action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

The students worry about new rules for student visas and the escalation of hostilities in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

The New York Times

Reminds me of our wedding night that," replied Charlie, which struck me as an unnecessary escalation of hostilities.

Independent

This latest escalation of hostilities between the two neighbours makes the prospect of a wider intervention a notch likelier.

The Economist

The important question is whether Nato opts for an unnecessary escalation of hostilities, a dangerous game of tit-for-tat, or a properly calibrated and proportionate response.

The Guardian - Opinion

In August 2008, following an escalation of hostilities between Russia and Georgia over the separatist region of South Ossetia, Georgia announced its intention to withdraw from the CIS.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Amid the escalation of hostilities over an attack in Kashmir, the leadership of each country seemed to give itself a way out of pushing the conflict into war.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Citizens' groups fear an escalation of hostility toward the police if the investigations do not result in charges or if there are more shootings.

The New York Times

One result of this pandering to populism has been an escalation of hostility shown to those daring to propose Evans might return to professional football.

Independent

SOUTH ASIA -- In an escalation of hostility set off by Pakistan's failure to clamp down on two groups accused of attacking the Indian Parliament, the two nuclear-armed nations cut off bus and air links, restricted one another's diplomats and massed their armies at the border.

The New York Times

In Tehran, politicians across the board said Wednesday that if the United States proceeded with plans to declare the Revolutionary Guard a foreign terrorist organization, the action would only unify politicians in Iran and lead to an escalation of hostility between the countries.

The New York Times

At the UN, a ceasefire along the 38th parallel was proposed to China on December 11 , 1950in order to avoid any further escalation of hostility between China and US.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "escalation of hostilities", ensure the context clearly indicates which parties are involved and the nature of the conflict. Be specific about what actions constitute the escalation.

Common error

Avoid using "escalation of hostilities" in situations where the increase in conflict is minor or insignificant. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and create unnecessary alarm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "escalation of hostilities" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a situation where there's an increase in the intensity or severity of conflicts. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

17%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Science

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "escalation of hostilities" is a grammatically sound noun phrase widely used to describe an increase in conflict or aggression. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is prevalent in news and formal writing. While interchangeable with alternatives like "increased aggression" or "heightened conflict", it maintains a formal and serious tone. To use it effectively, be clear about the involved parties and the specific actions that constitute the escalation. While "escalation of hostilities" is a common term in formal contexts, it should not be used in trivial or sensationalized contexts to maintain its significance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heightened conflict

This phrase emphasizes the intensity of the conflict, suggesting a more serious situation.

worsening conflict

This option focuses on the deteriorating state of a conflict, emphasizing its negative progression.

increased aggression

This alternative is less formal and more general, referring to a rise in aggressive behavior.

upsurge in violence

This alternative stresses the increase in violent acts or activities.

intensified warfare

This alternative specifically refers to an increase in military conflict or war-related activities.

aggravation of tensions

Implies existing tensions are made worse or more intense.

growing antagonism

This phrase suggests an increase in mutual animosity or opposition between parties.

deterioration of relations

Indicates a decline in the quality of the relationship, leading to increased conflict potential.

rising tensions

This refers to an increase in strain and unease between parties, potentially leading to conflict.

flare-up of conflict

Highlights a sudden burst of increased conflict after a period of relative calm.

FAQs

How can I use "escalation of hostilities" in a sentence?

You can use "escalation of hostilities" to describe a situation where there is an increase in aggressive actions or conflict between different parties. For example, "The recent border clashes mark a dangerous "escalation of hostilities" between the two countries."

What are some alternatives to "escalation of hostilities"?

Alternatives to "escalation of hostilities" include phrases like "increased aggression", "heightened conflict", or "rising tensions". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "escalation of hostilities" formal or informal?

"Escalation of hostilities" is considered a relatively formal phrase, often used in news reports, academic writing, and official statements. It is less common in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "escalation of hostilities" and "de-escalation of hostilities"?

"Escalation of hostilities" refers to an increase in conflict or aggression, while "de-escalation of hostilities" refers to a reduction or lessening of conflict. "De-escalation of hostilities" usually involves steps taken to reduce tension and avoid further conflict.