CEFR B2

worsen

verb

Meaning

To become or make something worse, more serious, or more severe.

Examples

His condition worsened overnight, and doctors were concerned.
The drought worsened the already difficult situation for the farmers.

Synonyms: deteriorate, aggravate, exacerbate

Learn English that separates you from the crowd with Anaversity: private classes, Ani practice, Campus tools, and a public English-learning community.

worsen (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈwɜːrsən/

Definition

To become or make something worse, more serious, or more severe.

Examples

His condition worsened overnight, and doctors were concerned.
The drought worsened the already difficult situation for the farmers.
The argument only served to worsen their relationship.

How to Use worsen

worsen something (prepositional phrase): To make a bad situation, condition, or relationship more severe. — "Don't say anything that could worsen the already tense atmosphere."
worsen (verb): To become worse. — "The patient's symptoms began to worsen after the surgery."

Synonyms of worsen

Words with a similar meaning to worsen:

Antonyms of worsen

Words with the opposite meaning to worsen:

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary