aggravate
Pronunciation
Verb
B1 Intermediate
Quick answer
To make a bad situation, injury, or problem worse.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
worsen
intensify
Antonyms
relieve
ease
Usage notes
In informal speech, "aggravate" is also used to mean annoy someone, though careful writers reserve it for making things worse.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Scratching the rash will only _____ the irritation."
Answer: aggravate
In your own words, what does "aggravate" mean?
To make a bad situation, injury, or problem worse.
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