marked escalation

USAGE SUMMARY

"marked escalation" is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It typically refers to a significant increase in something, typically in a negative or tense situation. Example: The conflict between the two countries saw a marked escalation with the deployment of more troops and the bombing of civilian areas.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Earlier, Hamas militants fired a more powerful rocket from Gaza into Israel, injuring no one but drawing new warnings of retaliation for what Israeli officials consider a marked escalation in the fighting.

The New York Times

But the dead cats were a marked escalation in intimidation.

The Guardian

The response shows a marked escalation in tensions between Kim Jong-un's regime and the West.

Independent

Western diplomats talk of a marked escalation in dogfights between Turkish and Greek pilots over the Aegean.

The Economist

Calling civilians to confront the Indian Army is a marked escalation and a likely invitation to more bloodshed.

The New York Times

Such a step would represent a marked escalation in the Greek government's campaign to retrieve the marbles.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The statement marked an escalation in rhetoric from his outbursts on the first day of his chaotic trial last Monday.

The Guardian

The speech marked another escalation in rising tensions between Washington and Beijing amid a deepening trade war and new military hostilities.

The Washington Post

The exchange marked an escalation of an increasingly hostile battle between Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill over Mr. Bush's judicial nominees.

The New York Times

Monday's fighting, which took place in several Cairo locations including outside the city's university and in the central Ramses Square, marked an escalation in Brotherhood tactics.

The Guardian

The films that marked the escalation, in writer's memory, were Arthur Penn's "Bonnie and Clyde" (1967) and Sam Peckinpah's "The Wild Bunch" (1969).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "marked escalation" to emphasize a significant and often concerning increase in intensity, scope, or severity. For example, "The conflict witnessed a "marked escalation" after the recent attacks."

Common error

Avoid using "marked escalation" when describing neutral increases. The phrase carries a connotation of negativity or concern. For example, it is not appropriate to say "There was a "marked escalation" in sales this quarter"; instead, opt for "significant increase."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "marked escalation" functions as a noun phrase, where "marked" modifies the noun "escalation". It describes a process becoming more intense or serious. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "marked escalation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, particularly in news and media, to describe a significant increase in the intensity or severity of a situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it accurately and effectively conveys a sense of growing concern or urgency. While generally neutral to formal, its use is best reserved for contexts where the increase is not just quantitative but also implies a negative or potentially harmful development. Alternatives like "significant increase" or "noticeable intensification" may be more appropriate in neutral contexts. Overall, "marked escalation" is a valuable phrase for precisely describing a concerning shift in a situation's intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant increase

Focuses on the quantitative aspect of the change, emphasizing the size of the increase rather than the intensity or severity.

noticeable intensification

Highlights the growing intensity of a situation or conflict, using "noticeable" instead of "marked".

sharp rise

Indicates a quick and steep increase, suggesting a rapid change in a short period.

clear worsening

Emphasizes the negative aspect of the change, focusing on the decline or deterioration of a situation.

distinct upturn

Can be used when the escalation refers to a positive trend, like an increase in profits, though "escalation" often implies negativity.

considerable growth

Highlights the expansion in size, number, or extent, useful in contexts where escalation means growth.

step up

Implies an active increase in effort or intensity, often used in contexts of competition or conflict.

heightened tension

Focuses specifically on the increase in stress or strain in a relationship or situation.

intensified conflict

Highlights the increasing severity and activity within a conflict or dispute.

aggravated situation

Focuses on the worsening and increased severity of an already difficult situation.

FAQs

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

Use "marked escalation" to describe a significant and often worrying increase in something, such as violence, tension, or conflict. For example, "The region experienced a "marked escalation" of violence after the ceasefire agreement collapsed."

What's the difference between "marked increase" and "marked escalation"?

"Marked increase" generally refers to a noticeable rise in quantity or level, while "marked escalation" suggests a rise in intensity, severity, or conflict. Escalation typically carries a more negative connotation than increase.

What are some synonyms for "marked escalation"?

Alternatives include "significant increase", "noticeable intensification", or "sharp rise", depending on the specific context.

Is "marked escalation" formal or informal language?

"Marked escalation" is generally considered neutral to formal language, suitable for news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. It may not be appropriate for very informal contexts.