Usage and Nuance
The verb 加剧 (jiā jù) means "to intensify" or "to exacerbate" a situation, often negative ones like conflicts, problems, or crises. It implies an increase in severity or seriousness.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used in news reports or formal discussions about social, economic, environmental, or political issues. For example, "经济危机加剧" (economic crisis intensifies) or "矛盾加剧" (conflicts intensify).
Collocations and Patterns
- 加剧问题 (to intensify a problem): used when a problem becomes worse.
- 加剧矛盾 (to intensify contradictions/conflicts): common in political or social contexts.
- 加剧压力 (to increase pressure): used when stress or pressure grows.
Register and Tone
This word is formal and often appears in written or formal spoken Chinese, such as news, academic, or official contexts. It is less common in casual conversation.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse 加剧 with 加快 (to accelerate) or 加重 (to increase in weight or severity). 加剧 specifically emphasizes worsening or intensifying negative conditions, not just speeding up or increasing quantity.