Ratchet up
verb
To gradually increase something.
The government decided to ratchet up taxes to cover the budget deficit.
Often appears as...
- ratchet up pressure
- ratchet up measures
verb
To create more tension or make a situation more serious.
His harsh words ratcheted up the tension in the room.
Often appears as...
- ratchet up tension
- ratchet up conflict
verb
To gradually increase something.
The government decided to ratchet up taxes to cover the budget deficit.
Often appears as...
- ratchet up pressure
- ratchet up measures
verb
To create more tension or make a situation more serious.
His harsh words ratcheted up the tension in the room.
Often appears as...
- ratchet up tension
- ratchet up conflict
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Gradual Increase
Used when something grows or intensifies slowly over time, not suddenly.
We need to ratchet up security measures in response to recent incidents.
Pro Tip 2/3Often Strategic
It implies a purposeful and often strategic decision to raise levels, not accidental.
The team will ratchet up their training regimen before the championship.
Pro Tip 3/3Positive or Negative
Can be used in both good and bad situations, depending on context.
Unfortunately, due to the drought, they had to ratchet up water prices.
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