is intensifying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is intensifying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that is becoming stronger or more intense over time. Example: "The storm is intensifying, and we need to take precautions immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In fact, competition is intensifying.

The Economist

Diplomacy, hitherto fruitless, is intensifying.

The Economist

But competition is intensifying.

The New York Times

Even China's slowdown is intensifying.

The Economist

And the competition is intensifying.

The New York Times

Military co-operation is intensifying.

The Guardian

But he is intensifying his efforts.

The New York Times

"The wariness about Europe is intensifying everywhere.

The Guardian

The problem of flight delays is intensifying.

Independent

But pressure on Mr. Cuomo is intensifying.

The New York Times

The glare of attention is intensifying.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the subject of the sentence clearly indicates what is becoming more intense. For example, avoid vague subjects like "things" and opt for specific nouns like "pressure", "competition", or "focus".

Common error

Avoid using "is intensifying" to describe static states or conditions that do not inherently change over time. For instance, it's less appropriate to say "The color is intensifying" unless you're actively altering it. Instead, use descriptive adjectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is intensifying" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present progressive form, indicating an ongoing process. It describes an action that is currently in progress and becoming stronger or more pronounced. As seen in the Ludwig examples, it frequently modifies nouns describing situations, emotions or actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

4%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is intensifying" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that describes a process becoming stronger or more pronounced. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is most frequently found in News & Media contexts to emphasize the growing severity of situations. When writing, ensure that "is intensifying" is paired with a subject that can logically undergo intensification and avoid using it to describe static conditions. Consider alternatives such as "is escalating" or "is growing stronger" to add nuance to your writing. Remember, using descriptive adjectives can be more appropriate for describing static states.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is escalating

Focuses on the rapid increase or magnification of something, often in a negative context.

is heightening

Emphasizes an increase in intensity or degree, suggesting a rise in some quality or state.

is growing stronger

Highlights an increase in strength or power, indicating a reinforcement of something.

is becoming more acute

Indicates a sharpening or intensification of a problem or situation.

is gaining momentum

Suggests that something is progressing or developing at an accelerating rate.

is amplifying

Focuses on the magnification of something, making it more pronounced or noticeable.

is becoming exacerbated

Implies that a problem is becoming worse or more severe.

is gathering pace

Indicates an increase in speed or tempo, suggesting accelerated progression.

is building up

Highlights the gradual accumulation or intensification of something over time.

is mounting

Emphasizes the increasing accumulation or rise of something, often pressure or tension.

FAQs

How can I use "is intensifying" in a sentence?

Use "is intensifying" to describe a situation that's growing stronger or more severe over time. For example, "The debate "is intensifying" as the election nears."

What's a synonym for "is intensifying"?

Alternatives include "is escalating", "is heightening", or "is growing stronger", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the situation is intensifying"?

Yes, it's correct. Saying "the situation "is intensifying"" implies the situation is becoming more critical, urgent, or severe.

What's the difference between "is intensifying" and "is increasing"?

"Is intensifying" suggests a rise in severity or intensity, whereas "is increasing" simply indicates a rise in quantity or amount. Pressure "is intensifying" conveys more urgency than pressure "is increasing".