exacerbating tensions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exacerbating tensions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or action that worsens or intensifies existing conflicts or disagreements. Example: "The recent policy changes are exacerbating tensions between the two communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Exacerbating tensions, Egypt's oligarchs flaunted their wealth.

The New York Times

Some economic experts argue that Germany's economic policies are exacerbating tensions in the euro zone.

The New York Times

They will try to enter surrounding farmlands, exacerbating tensions between humans and elephants.

The Guardian

He blamed Mr Chaudhry for exacerbating tensions before the coup and claimed to have led a return to stability.

The Economist

Mr. Netanyahu simply ignored that nuance — as did many conservative critics here in Washington — further exacerbating tensions with the administration.

The New York Times

The site's sole indoor facility became a command center, exacerbating tensions between the American production team and its Mexican hosts.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

To get information on a headman's ancestry, Chagnon would interview a rival, exacerbating tension between the men.

The New York Times - Books

Such organisational burden exacerbates tensions, she thinks.

The Guardian - Film

The comments were almost certain to exacerbate tensions between Washington and Europe over the war in Iraq.

The New York Times

Abbott, who is a close ally of Jeremy Corbyn, suggested recent media coverage helped to exacerbate tensions.

The Guardian

In Washington, President Bush said, "Russia's action only exacerbates tensions and complicates diplomatic negotiations".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about international relations or social issues, use "exacerbating tensions" to accurately depict actions or policies that are worsening existing conflicts, ensuring your analysis conveys the severity of the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "exacerbating tensions" in casual conversation or informal writing. This phrase is best suited for formal analysis and reports where precision and a serious tone are required. Use alternatives like "making things worse" or "stirring up trouble" for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exacerbating tensions" functions primarily as a verb phrase acting upon a noun. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it describes an action that worsens or intensifies existing conflicts. It is commonly used to pinpoint the cause of worsening relations or situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exacerbating tensions" is a phrase used to describe actions or situations that worsen existing conflicts or strained relationships. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's best suited for formal writing due to its analytical nature. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the escalating nature of a conflict, and consider alternative phrases like "worsening strains" or "intensifying conflicts" to fine-tune the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

escalating friction

Highlights the increasing level of disagreement and conflict.

intensifying conflicts

Highlights the increasing severity or intensity of ongoing conflicts.

aggravating disputes

Emphasizes the act of making existing disputes more severe or troublesome.

worsening strains

Focuses on the deterioration of existing strains or pressures, rather than the act of making them worse.

inflaming discord

Suggests a more active and heated worsening of existing disagreements.

heightening antagonism

Indicates an increase in mutual hostility or opposition.

fuelling animosity

Implies adding fuel to already existing negative feelings or resentment.

deepening rifts

Focuses on making divisions or disagreements more profound.

stirring up trouble

Less formal and more general, referring to causing problems or conflict.

complicating matters

Focuses on making situations more complex and difficult, which can lead to increased tensions.

FAQs

How can I use "exacerbating tensions" in a sentence?

You can use "exacerbating tensions" to describe actions or situations that worsen existing strained relationships or conflicts. For example: "The new regulations are "exacerbating tensions" between the government and local businesses."

What are some alternatives to "exacerbating tensions"?

Alternatives include "intensifying conflicts", "worsening strains", or "aggravating disputes". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "exacerbating tensions" in a formal context?

Yes, "exacerbating tensions" is suitable for formal contexts, such as academic papers, news reports, and business analyses, where a precise and serious tone is required.

What is the difference between "exacerbating tensions" and "easing tensions"?

"Exacerbating tensions" means to worsen or intensify existing conflicts, while "easing tensions" implies reducing or alleviating those conflicts. They are antonyms, representing opposite actions regarding the state of relationships.