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.

The two nations have de-escalated from a tit-for-tat trade war last year that heightened tensions.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

These concessions de-escalated the war and saved tens of thousands of lives.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 14, 2026

I’ve known many police officers in my long career covering crime who could have de-escalated that event without bloodshed.

From Salon • Jan. 9, 2026

A ceasefire has de-escalated the conflict with the Houthis in recent years and led to a freezing of the front lines.

From BBC • Jan. 2, 2026

The release of novelist Boualem Sansal has de-escalated a crisis in relations between France and its former colony Algeria, but much work remains to be done to normalise ties deeply scarred by history.

From Barron's • Nov. 13, 2025