magpalala
The English verb escalate is translated to Tagalog as magpalala.
magpalala is used to describe intensifying a situation or a problem. Note that this term carries a negative connotation, specifically meaning to make a bad situation even worse.
Meaning: to intensify (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb is composed of the prefix mag- (to do/perform an action) and the root lala (worsen/intensify).
Which one should you use?
While magpalala is used for making a situation more intense or worse, you may encounter Pataasin, which is a formal term meaning to raise or to heighten and Lumala, which is a formal term meaning to worsen or to become worse.
How does it change in a sentence?
To use this verb in different tenses, use the completed aspect (past tense) nagpalala for escalated and the contemplated aspect (future tense) magpapalala for will escalate.
Did you know?
- In Tagalog, the root lala is used for both the escalation of a conflict and the worsening of a physical illness.
- While English speakers might 'escalate sales' or 'escalate volume', using magpalala for a positive increase in Tagalog would sound like you are making the sales a problem.
- The formal alternative pataasin comes from the root taas, meaning 'high', which is also the root for the word describing a person's height.
Examples in context
- Magpapalala lang ito ng sitwasyon.This will only escalate the situation.
Example conversation
Angela and Jose are discussing a misunderstanding with a friend.
- AngelaGusto ko nang magreklamo sa kanya.I want to complain to him already.
- JoseHuwag, baka magpalala lang iyon ng gulo.Don't, that might just escalate the trouble.
- AngelaPero kailangang malaman niya ang totoo.But he needs to know the truth.
- JosePag-isipan mo muna, Angela.Think about it first, Angela.
