Definition of Aggravate
Quick Meaning of Aggravate
To make a bad situation worse or more irritating.
Detailed Definition of Aggravate
To make something worse, more serious, or more annoying; to intensify or exacerbate.
How to Pronounce Aggravate
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: AG-ruh-vayt. Stress on first syllable. The 'g' is hard (like in 'go').
Watch out: ag-GRAV-ate (stress on second syllable) or uh-GRAV-ate (wrong vowel sound).
Origin and Etymology of Aggravate
From Latin aggravare: ad- (to) + gravis (heavy). Means to 'make heavier' or 'worsen'.
How to Use Aggravate in a Sentence
Each example shows “aggravate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The stress aggravated his existing health problems.”
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“Hot weather has aggravated the drought situation in the region.”
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“The new regulations seem to aggravate rather than solve the traffic issue.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Aggravate
Common Synonyms for Aggravate
Smart Synonyms for Aggravate — When to Use Each
- worsen
- to make something bad become even worse or
- intensify
- to make something stronger or more extreme in
- irritate
- to annoy someone or make them feel angry
- annoy
- to make someone feel slightly angry or impatient
Antonyms of Aggravate
Common Collocations with Aggravate
These phrases pair with “aggravate” in everyday English:
- aggravate a situation
- aggravate a condition
- aggravate someone
- aggravating factor
Common Mistakes When Using Aggravate
Even fluent speakers slip up with “aggravate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: That comment aggravated me angry.
- ✓ Correct: That comment aggravated me. / That comment made me angry.
- Why: Aggravate takes only a noun/situation object, not an adjective complement.
- ✗ Wrong: His behavior was aggravating the teacher by speaking.
- ✓ Correct: His behavior was aggravating. / His behavior was aggravating the teacher.
- Why: Use 'aggravating' as adjective or 'aggravate' + object, not both structures together.
Words Confused With Aggravate
- Aggravate vs Exacerbate: Both mean worsen, but exacerbate is stronger/more formal and suggests increasing severity more dramatically.
Other Forms of Aggravate
- Noun: aggravation
- Verb: aggravate
Frequently Asked Questions About Aggravate
What is the meaning of "Aggravate"?
To make a bad situation worse or more irritating.
How do you pronounce "Aggravate"?
The IPA is /ˈæɡrəveɪt/. AG-ruh-vayt. Stress on first syllable. The 'g' is hard (like in 'go').
What part of speech is "Aggravate"?
"Aggravate" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Aggravate"?
Common synonyms include worsen, intensify, irritate.
How do you use "Aggravate" in a sentence?
For example: "The stress aggravated his existing health problems."