worsen
Go downhill fast
To worsen is to become or make worse: The patient's condition worsened overnight, Budget cuts will only worsen the problem.
The word works in both directions—things worsen on their own, or actions worsen them.
It's straightforward where deteriorate might sound clinical or decline too gradual.
deteriorate
Grow worse over time
- degenerateDecline morally or physically
- degradeLower in standing
- decayGradual organic breakdown
slump · dip · wane · atrophy · ebb · recede · fail · crumble · collapse · diminish
exacerbate
Make a situation worse
magnify · amplify · inflame · intensify · deepen · provoke · irritate · embitter · envenom · sour
- declinedecline, in decline, decrease, downswing, on the decline
- adding insult to injuryrub it in, twist the knife, aggravate, exacerbate, compound
- escalationescalation, escalate, ratchet up, intensify, crank it up
- deterioratedecay, rot, deteriorate, decompose, corrode
- intransitivesarrive, come, depart, die, disappear
- falling illfall ill, get sick, sicken, take ill, come down with
change in quality or condition
worsenimprove
Raise in quality
better · ameliorate · get better · enhance · advance
- the worstMost inferior possible
- for better or worseIn any circumstance
- worst enemyUltimate personal adversary
- worse offIn diminished circumstances
- could be worseGrudging mild acceptance
- worst caseMost unfavorable possibility
worst, worse, worsening, worsened, worsens, worsenings, worser