de-escalate

American  

[dee-es-kuh-leyt] / diˈɛs kəˌleɪt /

Or deescalate

verb (used with or without object)

de-escalated, de-escalating

1. to decrease in intensity, magnitude, etc..

   to de-escalate a war.

---

de-escalate British  

/ diːˈɛskəˌleɪt /

verb

1. to reduce the level or intensity of (a crisis, etc)

---

Other Word Forms

• de-escalation noun
• de-escalatory adjective
• deescalation noun
• deescalatory adjective

Etymology

Origin of de-escalate

First recorded in 1960–65; de- + escalate

Example Sentences

"We continue to improve ChatGPT's training to recognise and respond to signs of distress, de-escalate conversations in sensitive moments, and guide people toward real-world support, working closely with mental health clinicians and experts," it added.

From BBC

"The AU has helped de-escalate political tensions and support dialogue before situations descend into violence," he said, citing the work done to prevent war between Sudan and South Sudan over the flashpoint region of Abyei.

From Barron's

Uncertainty over the location and scope had threatened to derail the talks, which are part of a diplomatic effort by regional mediators to de-escalate tensions.

From BBC

"The real challenge lies here: fundamental work to de-escalate tensions. This involves families, teaching staff, elected officials, and every citizen. This is a fight we must wage together."

From BBC

Middle Eastern officials involved in efforts to de-escalate the tensions say they are downgrading expectations for Friday’s meeting following their conversations with Iranian diplomats.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• abate
• curtail
• decrease
• dilute
• diminish
• dwindle
• ease
• erode
• impair
• lighten
• minimize
• mitigate
• narrow
• shrink
• slacken
• weaken