aggravate
verb (used with object)
to make worse or more severe; intensify, as anything evil, disorderly, or troublesome.
are aggravating
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present progressiveof aggravate.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But by choking off agricultural production, transport and markets, Rwanda’s M23 allies are aggravating Congo’s hunger crisis.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 16, 2026
These casualties are aggravating, sure, but they allow Chalamet’s star to shine so bright that it blinds.
From Salon ● Dec. 25, 2025
"Your serious previous conviction and her obvious vulnerability are aggravating factors."
From BBC ● Nov. 8, 2022
What kinds of relationships are aggravating – or nurturing?
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 13, 2021
We’ve both our little tempers, perhaps; but you are aggravating; you must own that, Caudle.
From Mrs. Caudle's Curtain Lectures by Douglas William Jerrold
